Delamination resistant pharmaceutical glass containers containing active pharmaceutical ingredients

ABSTRACT

The present invention is based, at least in part, on the identification of a pharmaceutical container formed, at least in part, of a glass composition which exhibits a reduced propensity to delaminate, i.e., a reduced propensity to shed glass particulates. As a result, the presently claimed containers are particularly suited for storage of pharmaceutical compositions and, specifically, a pharmaceutical solution comprising a pharmaceutically active ingredient, for example, RITUXAN (rituximab), AVASTIN (Bevacizumab), LUCENTIS (Ranibizumab) or HERCEPTIN (trastuzumab).

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/551,163, filed Oct. 25, 2011, entitled “Glass Compositions With Improved Chemical and Mechanical Durability,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/656,998, filed Jun. 7, 2012, entitled “De-lamination Resistant Glass Containers”; the entirety of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present specification generally relates to pharmaceutical containers and, more specifically, to chemically and mechanically durable pharmaceutical containers that are delamination resistant and formed, at least in part, of a glass composition.

BACKGROUND

The design of a packaged pharmaceutical composition generally seeks to provide an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) in a suitable package that is convenient to use, that maintains the stability of the API over prolonged storage, and that ultimately allows for the delivery of efficacious, stable, active, nontoxic and nondegraded API.

Most packaged formulations are complex physico-chemical systems, through which the API is subject to deterioration by a variety of chemical, physical, and microbial reactions. Interactions between drugs, adjuvants, containers, and/or closures may occur, which can lead to the inactivation, decomposition and/or degradation of the API.

Historically, glass has been used as the preferred material for packaging pharmaceuticals because of its hermeticity, optical clarity and excellent chemical durability relative to other materials. Specifically, the glass used in pharmaceutical packaging must have adequate chemical durability so as not to affect the stability of the pharmaceutical compositions contained therein. Glasses having suitable chemical durability include those glass compositions within the ASTM standard ‘Type 1B’ glass compositions which have a proven history of chemical durability.

However, use of glass for such applications is limited by the mechanical performance of the glass. Specifically, in the pharmaceutical industry, glass breakage is a safety concern for the end user as the broken package and/or the contents of the package may injure the end user. Further, non-catastrophic breakage (i.e., when the glass cracks but does not break) may cause the contents to lose their sterility which, in turn, may result in costly product recalls.

One approach to improving the mechanical durability of the glass package is to thermally temper the glass package. Thermal tempering strengthens glass by inducing a surface compressive stress during rapid cooling after forming. This technique works well for glass articles with flat geometries (such as windows), glass articles with thicknesses >2 mm, and glass compositions with high thermal expansion. However, pharmaceutical glass packages typically have complex geometries (vial, tubular, ampoule, etc.), thin walls (˜1-1.5 mm), and are produced from low expansion glasses (30-55×10⁻⁷K⁻¹) making glass pharmaceutical packages unsuitable for strengthening by thermal tempering.

Chemical tempering also strengthens glass by the introduction of surface compressive stress. The stress is introduced by submerging the article in a molten salt bath. As ions from the glass are replaced by larger ions from the molten salt, a compressive stress is induced in the surface of the glass. The advantage of chemical tempering is that it can be used on complex geometries, thin samples, and is relatively insensitive to the thermal expansion characteristics of the glass substrate. However, glass compositions which exhibit a moderate susceptibility to chemical tempering generally exhibit poor chemical durability and vice-versa.

Finally, glass compositions commonly used in pharmaceutical packages, e.g., Type 1a and Type 1b glass, further suffer from a tendency for the interior surfaces of the pharmaceutical package to shed glass particulates or “delaminate” following exposure to pharmaceutical solutions. Such delamination often destabilizes the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) present in the solution, thereby rendering the API therapeutically ineffective or unsuitable for therapeutic use.

Delamination has caused the recall of multiple drug products over the last few years (see, for example, Reynolds et al., (2011) BioProcess International 9(11) pp. 52-57). In response to the growing delamination problem, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an advisory indicating that the presence of glass particulate in injectable drugs can pose a risk.

The advisory states that, “[t]here is potential for drugs administered intravenously that contain these fragments to cause embolic, thrombotic and other vascular events; and subcutaneously to the development of foreign body granuloma, local injections site reactions and increased immunogenicity.”

Accordingly, a recognized need exists for alternative glass containers for packaging of pharmaceutical compositions which exhibit a reduced propensity to delaminate.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a delamination resistant pharmaceutical container formed, at least in part, of a glass composition including from about 70 mol. % to about 80 mol. % SiO₂; from about 3 mol. % to about 13 mol. % alkaline earth oxide; X mol. % Al₂O₃; and Y mol. % alkali oxide, wherein the alkali oxide includes Na₂O in an amount greater than about 8 mol. %, wherein the ratio of Y:X is greater than 1, and the glass composition is free of boron and compounds of boron.

In one embodiment, the SiO₂ is present in an amount less than or equal to 78 mol. %.

In one embodiment, the amount of the alkaline earth oxide is greater than or equal to about 4 mol. % and less than or equal to about 8 mol. %. In a particular embodiment, the alkaline earth oxide includes MgO and CaO and has a ratio (CaO (mol. %)/(CaO (mol. %)+MgO (mol. %))) that is less than or equal to 0.5. In a particular embodiment, the alkaline earth oxide includes from about 0.1 mol. % to less than or equal to about 1.0 mol. % CaO. In a particular embodiment, the alkaline earth oxide includes from about 3 mol. % to about 7 mol. % MgO.

In another embodiment, the alkali oxide includes greater than or equal to about 9 mol. % Na₂O and less than or equal to about 15 mol. % Na₂O. In another embodiment, the alkali oxide further includes K₂O in an amount less than or equal to about 3 mol. %. In a particular embodiment, the alkali oxide includes K₂O in an amount greater than or equal to about 0.01 mol. % and less than or equal to about 1.0 mol. %.

In one embodiment, X is greater than or equal to about 2 mol. % and less than or equal to about 10 mol. %. In a particular embodiment, the ratio of Y:X is less than or equal to 2. In a particular embodiment, the ratio of Y:X is greater than or equal to 1.3 and less than or equal to 2.0.

In another embodiment, the glass composition is free of phosphorous and compounds of phosphorous.

In one embodiment, the glass composition has a type HGB1 hydrolytic resistance according to ISO 719. Alternatively or in addition, the glass composition has a type HGA1 hydrolytic resistance according to ISO 720 after ion exchange strengthening. Alternatively or in addition, the glass composition has a type HGA1 hydrolytic resistance according to ISO 720 before and after ion exchange strengthening. Alternatively or in addition, the glass composition has at least a class S3 acid resistance according to DIN 12116. Alternatively or in addition, the glass composition has at least a class A2 base resistance according to ISO 695.

In one embodiment, the glass composition is ion exchange strengthened.

In another embodiment, the composition further includes a compressive stress layer with a depth of layer greater than or equal to 10 μm and a surface compressive stress greater than or equal to 250 MPa.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a delamination resistant pharmaceutical container formed, at least in part, of a glass composition including from about 72 mol. % to about 78 mol. % SiO₂; from about 4 mol. % to about 8 mol. % alkaline earth oxide; X mol. % Al₂O₃, wherein X is greater than or equal to about 4 mol. % and less than or equal to about 8 mol. %; and Y mol. % alkali oxide, wherein the alkali oxide includes Na₂O in an amount greater than or equal to about 9 mol. % and less than or equal to about 15 mol. %, wherein the ratio of Y:X is greater than 1, and the glass composition is free of boron and compounds of boron.

In a particular embodiment, the ratio of Y:X is less than or equal to about 2. In a particular embodiment, the ratio of Y:X is greater than or equal to about 1.3 and less than or equal to about 2.0.

In one embodiment, the alkaline earth oxide includes MgO and CaO and has a ratio (CaO (mol. %)/(CaO (mol. %)+MgO (mol. %))) less than or equal to 0.5.

In another embodiment, the alkali oxide includes K₂O in an amount greater than or equal to about 0.01 mol. % and less than or equal to about 1.0 mol. %.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a delamination resistant pharmaceutical container formed, at least in part, of a glass composition including from about 68 mol. % to about 80 mol. % SiO₂; from about 3 mol. % to about 13 mol. % alkaline earth oxide; X mol. % Al₂O₃; Y mol. % alkali oxide, wherein the alkali oxide includes Na₂O in an amount greater than about 8 mol. %; and B₂O₃, wherein the ratio (B₂O₃ (mol. %)/(Y mol. %−X mol. %) is greater than 0 and less than 0.3, and the ratio of Y:X is greater than 1.

In one embodiment, the amount of SiO₂ is greater than or equal to about 70 mol. %.

In one embodiment, the amount of alkaline earth oxide is greater than or equal to about 4 mol. % and less than or equal to about 8 mol. %. In a particular embodiment, the alkaline earth oxide includes MgO and CaO and has a ratio (CaO (mol. %)/(CaO (mol. %)+MgO (mol. %))) less than or equal to 0.5. In a particular embodiment, the alkaline earth oxide includes CaO in an amount greater than or equal to about 0.1 mol. % and less than or equal to about 1.0 mol. %. In a particular embodiment, the alkaline earth oxide includes from about 3 mol. % to about 7 mol. % MgO.

In one embodiment, the alkali oxide is greater than or equal to about 9 mol. % Na₂O and less than or equal to about 15 mol. % Na₂O. In a particular embodiment, the alkali oxide further includes K₂O in a concentration less than or equal to about 3 mol. %. In another embodiment, the alkali oxide further includes K₂O in a concentration greater than or equal to about 0.01 mol. % and less than or equal to about 1.0 mol. %.

In another embodiment, the pharmaceutical container has a ratio (B₂O₃ (mol. %)/(Y mol. %−X mol. %) less than 0.2. In a particular embodiment, the amount of B₂O₃ is less than or equal to about 4.0 mol. %. In another embodiment, the amount of B₂O₃ is greater than or equal to about 0.01 mol. %.

In one embodiment, X is greater than or equal to about 2 mol. % and less than or equal to about 10 mol. %. In a particular embodiment, the ratio of Y:X is less than or equal to 2. In another embodiment, the ratio of Y:X is greater than 1.3.

In one embodiment, the glass composition is free of phosphorous and compounds of phosphorous.

In one embodiment, the glass composition has a type HGB1 hydrolytic resistance according to ISO 719. Alternatively or in addition, the glass composition has a type HGA1 hydrolytic resistance according to ISO 720 after ion exchange strengthening. Alternatively or in addition, the glass composition has a type HGA1 hydrolytic resistance according to ISO 720 before and after ion exchange strengthening. Alternatively or in addition, the glass composition has at least a class S3 acid resistance according to DIN 12116. Alternatively or in addition, the glass composition has at least a class A2 base resistance according to ISO 695.

In one embodiment, the glass composition is ion exchange strengthened.

In another embodiment, the composition further includes a compressive stress layer with a depth of layer greater than or equal to 10 μm and a surface compressive stress greater than or equal to 250 MPa.

In one embodiment of any of the foregoing aspects of the invention, the pharmaceutical container further includes a pharmaceutical composition having an active pharmaceutical ingredient. In a particular embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition includes a citrate or phosphate buffer, for example, sodium citrate, SSC, monosodium phosphate or disodium phosphate. Alternatively or in addition, the pharmaceutical composition has a pH between about 7 and about 11, between about 7 and about 10, between about 7 and about 9, or between about 7 and about 8.

In one embodiment of any of the foregoing aspects of the invention, the active pharmaceutical ingredient is an antibody, or antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds CD20. In one embodiment, the active pharmaceutical ingredient is rituximab. In one embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition is RITUXAN®.

In another embodiment of any of the foregoing aspects of the invention, the active pharmaceutical ingredient is an antibody, or antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In one embodiment, the active pharmaceutical ingredient is bevacizumab. In one embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition is AVASTIN®.

In another embodiment of any of the foregoing aspects of the invention, the active pharmaceutical ingredient is an antibody, or antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A). In one embodiment, the active pharmaceutical ingredient is ranibizumab. In one embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition is LUCENTIS®.

In another embodiment of any of the foregoing aspects of the invention, the active pharmaceutical ingredient is an antibody, or antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds HER2. In one embodiment, the active pharmaceutical ingredient is trastuzumab. In one embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition is HERCEPTIN®.

In a particular aspect, the present invention provides a delamination resistant pharmaceutical container formed, at least in part, of a glass composition including about 76.8 mol. % SiO₂; about 6.0 mol. % Al₂O₃; about 11.6 mol. % Na₂O; about 0.1 mol. % K₂O; about 4.8 mol. % MgO; and about 0.5 mol. % CaO, wherein the glass composition is free of boron and compounds of boron; and wherein the pharmaceutical container further comprises a pharmaceutical composition selected from the group consisting of RITUXAN® (rituximab), AVASTIN® (Bevacizumab), LUCENTIS® (Ranibizumab) and HERCEPTIN® (trastuzumab).

Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the embodiments described herein, including the detailed description which follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description describe various embodiments and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the claimed subject matter. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the various embodiments, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate the various embodiments described herein, and together with the description serve to explain the principles and operations of the claimed subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 graphically depicts the relationship between the ratio of alkali oxides to alumina (x-axis) and the strain point, annealing point, and softening point (y-axes) of inventive and comparative glass compositions;

FIG. 2 graphically depicts the relationship between the ratio of alkali oxides to alumina (x-axis) and the maximum compressive stress and stress change (y-axes) of inventive and comparative glass compositions;

FIG. 3 graphically depicts the relationship between the ratio of alkali oxides to alumina (x-axis) and hydrolytic resistance as determined from the ISO 720 standard (y-axis) of inventive and comparative glass compositions;

FIG. 4 graphically depicts diffusivity D (y-axis) as a function of the ratio (CaO/(CaO+MgO)) (x-axis) for inventive and comparative glass compositions;

FIG. 5 graphically depicts the maximum compressive stress (y-axis) as a function of the ratio (CaO/(CaO+MgO)) (x-axis) for inventive and comparative glass compositions;

FIG. 6 graphically depicts diffusivity D (y-axis) as a function of the ratio (B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃)) (x-axis) for inventive and comparative glass compositions; and

FIG. 7 graphically depicts the hydrolytic resistance as determined from the ISO 720 standard (y-axis) as a function of the ratio (B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃)) (x-axis) for inventive and comparative glass compositions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is based, at least in part, on the identification of a pharmaceutical container formed, at least in part, of a glass composition which exhibits a reduced propensity to delaminate, i.e., a reduced propensity to shed glass particulates. As a result, the presently claimed containers are particularly suited for storage, maintenance and/or delivery of therapeutically efficacious pharmaceutical compositions and, in particular pharmaceutical solutions comprising active pharmaceutical ingredients, for example, RITUXAN® (rituximab), AVASTIN® (Bevacizumab), LUCENTIS® (Ranibizumab) or HERCEPTIN® (trastuzumab).

Conventional glass containers or glass packages for containing pharmaceutical compositions are generally formed from glass compositions which are known to exhibit chemical durability and low thermal expansion, such as alkali borosilicate glasses. While alkali borosilicate glasses exhibit good chemical durability, container manufacturers have sporadically observed silica-rich glass flakes dispersed in the solution contained in the glass containers as a result of delamination, particularly when the solution has been stored in direct contact with the glass surface for long time periods (months to years).

Delamination refers to a phenomenon in which glass particles are released from the surface of the glass following a series of leaching, corrosion, and/or weathering reactions. In general, the glass particles are silica-rich flakes of glass which originate from the interior surface of the package as a result of the leaching of modifier ions into a solution contained within the package. These flakes may generally be from about 1 nm to 2 μm thick with a width greater than about 50 μm.

It has heretofore been hypothesized that delamination is due to the phase separation which occurs in alkali borosilicate glasses when the glass is exposed to the elevated temperatures used for reforming the glass into a container shape.

However, it is now believed that the delamination of the silica-rich glass flakes from the interior surfaces of the glass containers is due to the compositional characteristics of the glass container in its as-formed condition. Specifically, the high silica content of alkali borosilicate glasses increases the melting temperature of the glass. However, the alkali and borate components in the glass composition melt and/or vaporize at much lower temperatures. In particular, the borate species in the glass are highly volatile and evaporate from the surface of the glass at the high temperatures necessary to melt and form the glass.

Specifically, glass stock is reformed into glass containers at high temperatures and in direct flames. The high temperatures cause the volatile borate species to evaporate from portions of the surface of the glass. When this evaporation occurs within the interior volume of the glass container, the volatilized borate species are re-deposited in other areas of the glass causing compositional heterogeneities in the glass container, particularly with respect to the bulk of the glass container. For example, as one end of a glass tube is closed to form the bottom or floor of the container, borate species may evaporate from the bottom portion of the tube and be re-deposited elsewhere in the tube. As a result, the areas of the container exposed to higher temperatures have silica-rich surfaces. Other areas of the container which are amenable to boron deposition may have a silica-rich surface with a boron-rich layer below the surface. Areas amenable to boron deposition are at a temperature greater than the anneal point of the glass composition but less than the hottest temperature the glass is subjected to during reformation when the boron is incorporated into the surface of the glass. Solutions contained in the container may leach the boron from the boron-rich layer. As the boron-rich layer is leached from the glass, the silica-rich surface begins to spall, shedding silica-rich flakes into the solution.

Definitions

The term “softening point,” as used herein, refers to the temperature at which the viscosity of the glass composition is 1×10^(7.6) poise.

The term “annealing point,” as used herein, refers to the temperature at which the viscosity of the glass composition is 1×10¹³ poise.

The terms “strain point” and “T_(strain)” as used herein, refers to the temperature at which the viscosity of the glass composition is 3×10¹⁴ poise.

The term “CTE,” as used herein, refers to the coefficient of thermal expansion of the glass composition over a temperature range from about room temperature (RT) to about 300° C.

In the embodiments of the glass compositions described herein, the concentrations of constituent components (e.g., SiO₂, Al₂O₃, and the like) are specified in mole percent (mol. %) on an oxide basis, unless otherwise specified.

The terms “free” and “substantially free,” when used to describe the concentration and/or absence of a particular constituent component in a glass composition, means that the constituent component is not intentionally added to the glass composition. However, the glass composition may contain traces of the constituent component as a contaminant or tramp in amounts of less than 0.01 mol. %.

The term “chemical durability,” as used herein, refers to the ability of the glass composition to resist degradation upon exposure to specified chemical conditions. Specifically, the chemical durability of the glass compositions described herein was assessed according to three established material testing standards: DIN 12116 dated March 2001 and entitled “Testing of glass—Resistance to attack by a boiling aqueous solution of hydrochloric acid—Method of test and classification”; ISO 695:1991 entitled “Glass—Resistance to attack by a boiling aqueous solution of mixed alkali—Method of test and classification”; and ISO 720:1985 entitled “Glass—Hydrolytic resistance of glass grains at 121 degrees C.—Method of test and classification.” The chemical durability of the glass may also be assessed according to ISO 719:1985 “Glass—Hydrolytic resistance of glass grains at 98 degrees C.—Method of test and classification,” in addition to the above referenced standards. The ISO 719 standard is a less rigorous version of the ISO 720 standard and, as such, it is believed that a glass which meets a specified classification of the ISO 720 standard will also meet the corresponding classification of the ISO 719 standard. The classifications associated with each standard are described in further detail herein.

Glass Compositions

Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments of pharmaceutical containers formed, at least in part, of glass compositions which exhibit improved chemical and mechanical durability and, in particular, improved resistance to delamination. The glass compositions may also be chemically strengthened thereby imparting increased mechanical durability to the glass. The glass compositions described herein generally comprise silica (SiO₂), alumina (Al₂O₃), alkaline earth oxides (such as MgO and/or CaO), and alkali oxides (such as Na₂O and/or K₂O) in amounts which impart chemical durability to the glass composition. Moreover, the alkali oxides present in the glass compositions facilitate chemically strengthening the glass compositions by ion exchange. Various embodiments of the glass compositions will be described herein and further illustrated with reference to specific examples.

The glass compositions described herein are alkali aluminosilicate glass compositions which generally include a combination of SiO₂, Al₂O₃, at least one alkaline earth oxide, and one or more alkali oxides, such as Na₂O and/or K₂O. In some embodiments, the glass compositions may be free from boron and compounds containing boron. The combination of these components enables a glass composition which is resistant to chemical degradation and is also suitable for chemical strengthening by ion exchange. In some embodiments the glass compositions may further comprise minor amounts of one or more additional oxides such as, for example, SnO₂, ZrO₂, ZnO, TiO₂, As₂O₃ or the like. These components may be added as fining agents and/or to further enhance the chemical durability of the glass composition.

In the embodiments of the glass compositions described herein SiO₂ is the largest constituent of the composition and, as such, is the primary constituent of the resulting glass network. SiO₂ enhances the chemical durability of the glass and, in particular, the resistance of the glass composition to decomposition in acid and the resistance of the glass composition to decomposition in water. Accordingly, a high SiO₂ concentration is generally desired. However, if the content of SiO₂ is too high, the formability of the glass may be diminished as higher concentrations of SiO₂ increase the difficulty of melting the glass which, in turn, adversely impacts the formability of the glass. In the embodiments described herein, the glass composition generally comprises SiO₂ in an amount greater than or equal to 67 mol. % and less than or equal to about 80 mol. % or even less than or equal to 78 mol. %. In some embodiments, the amount of SiO₂ in the glass composition may be greater than about 68 mol. %, greater than about 69 mol. % or even greater than about 70 mol. %. In some other embodiments, the amount of SiO₂ in the glass composition may be greater than 72 mol. %, greater than 73 mol. % or even greater than 74 mol. %. For example, in some embodiments, the glass composition may include from about 68 mol. % to about 80 mol. % or even to about 78 mol. % SiO₂. In some other embodiments the glass composition may include from about 69 mol. % to about 80 mol. % or even to about 78 mol. % SiO₂. In some other embodiments the glass composition may include from about 70 mol. % to about 80 mol. % or even to about 78 mol. % SiO₂. In still other embodiments, the glass composition comprises SiO₂ in an amount greater than or equal to 70 mol. % and less than or equal to 78 mol. %. In some embodiments, SiO₂ may be present in the glass composition in an amount from about 72 mol. % to about 78 mol. %. In some other embodiments, SiO₂ may be present in the glass composition in an amount from about 73 mol. % to about 78 mol. %. In other embodiments, SiO₂ may be present in the glass composition in an amount from about 74 mol. % to about 78 mol. %. In still other embodiments, SiO₂ may be present in the glass composition in an amount from about 70 mol. % to about 76 mol. %.

The glass compositions described herein further include Al₂O₃. Al₂O₃, in conjunction with alkali oxides present in the glass compositions such as Na₂O or the like, improves the susceptibility of the glass to ion exchange strengthening. In the embodiments described herein, Al₂O₃ is present in the glass compositions in X mol. % while the alkali oxides are present in the glass composition in Y mol. %. The ratio Y:X in the glass compositions described herein is greater than 1 in order to facilitate the aforementioned susceptibility to ion exchange strengthening. Specifically, the diffusion coefficient or diffusivity D of the glass composition relates to the rate at which alkali ions penetrate into the glass surface during ion exchange. Glasses which have a ratio Y:X greater than about 0.9 or even greater than about 1 have a greater diffusivity than glasses which have a ratio Y:X less than 0.9. Glasses in which the alkali ions have a greater diffusivity can obtain a greater depth of layer for a given ion exchange time and ion exchange temperature than glasses in which the alkali ions have a lower diffusivity. Moreover, as the ratio of Y:X increases, the strain point, anneal point, and softening point of the glass decrease, such that the glass is more readily formable. In addition, for a given ion exchange time and ion exchange temperature, it has been found that compressive stresses induced in glasses which have a ratio Y:X greater than about 0.9 and less than or equal to 2 are generally greater than those generated in glasses in which the ratio Y:X is less than 0.9 or greater than 2. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the ratio of Y:X is greater than 0.9 or even greater than 1. In some embodiments, the ratio of Y:X is greater than 0.9, or even greater than 1, and less than or equal to about 2. In still other embodiments, the ratio of Y:X may be greater than or equal to about 1.3 and less than or equal to about 2.0 in order to maximize the amount of compressive stress induced in the glass for a specified ion exchange time and a specified ion exchange temperature.

However, if the amount of Al₂O₃ in the glass composition is too high, the resistance of the glass composition to acid attack is diminished. Accordingly, the glass compositions described herein generally include Al₂O₃ in an amount greater than or equal to about 2 mol. % and less than or equal to about 10 mol. %. In some embodiments, the amount of Al₂O₃ in the glass composition is greater than or equal to about 4 mol. % and less than or equal to about 8 mol. %. In some other embodiments, the amount of Al₂O₃ in the glass composition is greater than or equal to about 5 mol. % to less than or equal to about 7 mol. %. In some other embodiments, the amount of Al₂O₃ in the glass composition is greater than or equal to about 6 mol. % to less than or equal to about 8 mol. %. In still other embodiments, the amount of Al₂O₃ in the glass composition is greater than or equal to about 5 mol. % to less than or equal to about 6 mol. %.

The glass compositions also include one or more alkali oxides such as Na₂O and/or K₂O. The alkali oxides facilitate the ion exchangeability of the glass composition and, as such, facilitate chemically strengthening the glass. The alkali oxide may include one or more of Na₂O and K₂O. The alkali oxides are generally present in the glass composition in a total concentration of Y mol. %. In some embodiments described herein, Y may be greater than about 2 mol. % and less than or equal to about 18 mol. %. In some other embodiments, Y may be greater than about 8 mol. %, greater than about 9 mol. %, greater than about 10 mol. % or even greater than about 11 mol. %. For example, in some embodiments described herein Y is greater than or equal to about 8 mol. % and less than or equal to about 18 mol. %. In still other embodiments, Y may be greater than or equal to about 9 mol. % and less than or equal to about 14 mol. %.

The ion exchangeability of the glass composition is primarily imparted to the glass composition by the amount of the alkali oxide Na₂O initially present in the glass composition prior to ion exchange. Accordingly, in the embodiments of the glass compositions described herein, the alkali oxide present in the glass composition includes at least Na₂O. Specifically, in order to achieve the desired compressive strength and depth of layer in the glass composition upon ion exchange strengthening, the glass compositions include Na₂O in an amount from about 2 mol. % to about 15 mol. % based on the molecular weight of the glass composition. In some embodiments the glass composition includes at least about 8 mol. % of Na₂O based on the molecular weight of the glass composition. For example, the concentration of Na₂O may be greater than 9 mol. %, greater than 10 mol. % or even greater than 11 mol. %. In some embodiments, the concentration of Na₂O may be greater than or equal to 9 mol. % or even greater than or equal to 10 mol. %. For example, in some embodiments the glass composition may include Na₂O in an amount greater than or equal to about 9 mol. % and less than or equal to about 15 mol. % or even greater than or equal to about 9 mol. % and less than or equal to 13 mol. %.

As noted above, the alkali oxide in the glass composition may further include K₂O. The amount of K₂O present in the glass composition also relates to the ion exchangeability of the glass composition. Specifically, as the amount of K₂O present in the glass composition increases, the compressive stress obtainable through ion exchange decreases as a result of the exchange of potassium and sodium ions. Accordingly, it is desirable to limit the amount of K₂O present in the glass composition. In some embodiments, the amount of K₂O is greater than or equal to 0 mol. % and less than or equal to 3 mol. %. In some embodiments, the amount of K₂O is less or equal to 2 mol. % or even less than or equal to 1.0 mol. %. In embodiments where the glass composition includes K₂O, the K₂O may be present in a concentration greater than or equal to about 0.01 mol. % and less than or equal to about 3.0 mol. % or even greater than or equal to about 0.01 mol. % and less than or equal to about 2.0 mol. %. In some embodiments, the amount of K₂O present in the glass composition is greater than or equal to about 0.01 mol. % and less than or equal to about 1.0 mol. %. Accordingly, it should be understood that K₂O need not be present in the glass composition. However, when K₂O is included in the glass composition, the amount of K₂O is generally less than about 3 mol. % based on the molecular weight of the glass composition.

The alkaline earth oxides present in the composition improve the meltability of the glass batch materials and increase the chemical durability of the glass composition. In the glass compositions described herein, the total mol. % of alkaline earth oxides present in the glass compositions is generally less than the total mol. % of alkali oxides present in the glass compositions in order to improve the ion exchangeability of the glass composition. In the embodiments described herein, the glass compositions generally include from about 3 mol. % to about 13 mol. % of alkaline earth oxide. In some of these embodiments, the amount of alkaline earth oxide in the glass composition may be from about 4 mol. % to about 8 mol. % or even from about 4 mol. % to about 7 mol. %.

The alkaline earth oxide in the glass composition may include MgO, CaO, SrO, BaO or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the alkaline earth oxide includes MgO, CaO or combinations thereof. For example, in the embodiments described herein the alkaline earth oxide includes MgO. MgO is present in the glass composition in an amount which is greater than or equal to about 3 mol. % and less than or equal to about 8 mol. % MgO. In some embodiments, MgO may be present in the glass composition in an amount which is greater than or equal to about 3 mol. % and less than or equal to about 7 mol. % or even greater than or equal to 4 mol. % and less than or equal to about 7 mol. % by molecular weight of the glass composition.

In some embodiments, the alkaline earth oxide may further include CaO. In these embodiments CaO is present in the glass composition in an amount from about 0 mol. % to less than or equal to 6 mol. % by molecular weight of the glass composition. For example, the amount of CaO present in the glass composition may be less than or equal to 5 mol. %, less than or equal to 4 mol. %, less than or equal to 3 mol. %, or even less than or equal to 2 mol. %. In some of these embodiments, CaO may be present in the glass composition in an amount greater than or equal to about 0.1 mol. % and less than or equal to about 1.0 mol. %. For example, CaO may be present in the glass composition in an amount greater than or equal to about 0.2 mol. % and less than or equal to about 0.7 mol. % or even in an amount greater than or equal to about 0.3 mol. % and less than or equal to about 0.6 mol. %.

In the embodiments described herein, the glass compositions are generally rich in MgO, (i.e., the concentration of MgO in the glass composition is greater than the concentration of the other alkaline earth oxides in the glass composition including, without limitation, CaO). Forming the glass composition such that the glass composition is MgO-rich improves the hydrolytic resistance of the resultant glass, particularly following ion exchange strengthening. Moreover, glass compositions which are MgO-rich generally exhibit improved ion exchange performance relative to glass compositions which are rich in other alkaline earth oxides. Specifically, glasses formed from MgO-rich glass compositions generally have a greater diffusivity than glass compositions which are rich in other alkaline earth oxides, such as CaO. The greater diffusivity enables the formation of a deeper depth of layer in the glass. MgO-rich glass compositions also enable a higher compressive stress to be achieved in the surface of the glass compared to glass compositions which are rich in other alkaline earth oxides such as CaO. In addition, it is generally understood that as the ion exchange process proceeds and alkali ions penetrate more deeply into the glass, the maximum compressive stress achieved at the surface of the glass may decrease with time. However, glasses formed from glass compositions which are MgO-rich exhibit a lower reduction in compressive stress than glasses formed from glass compositions that are CaO-rich or rich in other alkaline earth oxides (i.e., glasses which are MgO-poor). Thus, MgO-rich glass compositions enable glasses which have higher compressive stress at the surface and greater depths of layer than glasses which are rich in other alkaline earth oxides.

In order to fully realize the benefits of MgO in the glass compositions described herein, it has been determined that the ratio of the concentration of CaO to the sum of the concentration of CaO and the concentration of MgO in mol. % (i.e., (CaO/(CaO+MgO)) should be minimized. Specifically, it has been determined that (CaO/(CaO+MgO)) should be less than or equal to 0.5. In some embodiments (CaO/(CaO+MgO)) is less than or equal to 0.3 or even less than or equal to 0.2. In some other embodiments (CaO/(CaO+MgO)) may even be less than or equal to 0.1.

Boron oxide (B₂O₃) is a flux which may be added to glass compositions to reduce the viscosity at a given temperature (e.g., the strain, anneal and softening temperatures) thereby improving the formability of the glass. However, it has been found that additions of boron significantly decrease the diffusivity of sodium and potassium ions in the glass composition which, in turn, adversely impacts the ion exchange performance of the resultant glass. In particular, it has been found that additions of boron significantly increase the time required to achieve a given depth of layer relative to glass compositions which are boron free. Accordingly, in some embodiments described herein, the amount of boron added to the glass composition is minimized in order to improve the ion exchange performance of the glass composition.

For example, it has been determined that the impact of boron on the ion exchange performance of a glass composition can be mitigated by controlling the ratio of the concentration of B₂O₃ to the difference between the total concentration of the alkali oxides (i.e., R₂O, where R is the alkali metals) and alumina (i.e., B₂O₃ (mol. %)/(R₂O (mol. %)-Al₂O₃ (mol. %)). In particular, it has been determined that when the ratio of B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃) is greater than or equal to about 0 and less than about 0.3 or even less than about 0.2, the diffusivities of alkali oxides in the glass compositions are not diminished and, as such, the ion exchange performance of the glass composition is maintained. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the ratio of B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃) is greater than 0 and less than or equal to 0.3. In some of these embodiments, the ratio of B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃) is greater than 0 and less than or equal to 0.2. In some embodiments, the ratio of B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃) is greater than 0 and less than or equal to 0.15 or even less than or equal to 0.1. In some other embodiments, the ratio of B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃) may be greater than 0 and less than or equal to 0.05. Maintaining the ratio B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃) to be less than or equal to 0.3 or even less than or equal to 0.2 permits the inclusion of B₂O₃ to lower the strain point, anneal point and softening point of the glass composition without the B₂O₃ adversely impacting the ion exchange performance of the glass.

In the embodiments described herein, the concentration of B₂O₃ in the glass composition is generally less than or equal to about 4 mol. %, less than or equal to about 3 mol. %, less than or equal to about 2 mol. %, or even less than or equal to 1 mol. %. For example, in embodiments where B₂O₃ is present in the glass composition, the concentration of B₂O₃ may be greater than about 0.01 mol. % and less than or equal to 4 mol. %. In some of these embodiments, the concentration of B₂O₃ may be greater than about 0.01 mol. % and less than or equal to 3 mol. % In some embodiments, the B₂O₃ may be present in an amount greater than or equal to about 0.01 mol. % and less than or equal to 2 mol. %, or even less than or equal to 1.5 mol. %. Alternatively, the B₂O₃ may be present in an amount greater than or equal to about 1 mol. % and less than or equal to 4 mol. %, greater than or equal to about 1 mol. % and less than or equal to 3 mol. % or even greater than or equal to about 1 mol. % and less than or equal to 2 mol. %. In some of these embodiments, the concentration of B₂O₃ may be greater than or equal to about 0.1 mol. % and less than or equal to 1.0 mol. %.

While in some embodiments the concentration of B₂O₃ in the glass composition is minimized to improve the forming properties of the glass without detracting from the ion exchange performance of the glass, in some other embodiments the glass compositions are free from boron and compounds of boron such as B₂O₃. Specifically, it has been determined that forming the glass composition without boron or compounds of boron improves the ion exchangeability of the glass compositions by reducing the process time and/or temperature required to achieve a specific value of compressive stress and/or depth of layer.

In some embodiments of the glass compositions described herein, the glass compositions are free from phosphorous and compounds containing phosphorous including, without limitation, P₂O₅. Specifically, it has been determined that formulating the glass composition without phosphorous or compounds of phosphorous increases the chemical durability of the glass composition.

In addition to the SiO₂, Al₂O₃, alkali oxides and alkaline earth oxides, the glass compositions described herein may optionally further comprise one or more fining agents such as, for example, SnO₂, As₂O₃, and/or Cl⁻ (from NaCl or the like). When a fining agent is present in the glass composition, the fining agent may be present in an amount less than or equal to about 1 mol. % or even less than or equal to about 0.4 mol. %. For example, in some embodiments the glass composition may include SnO₂ as a fining agent. In these embodiments SnO₂ may be present in the glass composition in an amount greater than about 0 mol. % and less than or equal to about 1 mol. % or even an amount greater than or equal to about 0.01 mol. % and less than or equal to about 0.30 mol. %.

Moreover, the glass compositions described herein may comprise one or more additional metal oxides to further improve the chemical durability of the glass composition. For example, the glass composition may further include ZnO, TiO₂, or ZrO₂, each of which further improves the resistance of the glass composition to chemical attack. In these embodiments, the additional metal oxide may be present in an amount which is greater than or equal to about 0 mol. % and less than or equal to about 2 mol. %. For example, when the additional metal oxide is ZnO, the ZnO may be present in an amount greater than or equal to 1 mol. % and less than or equal to about 2 mol. %. When the additional metal oxide is ZrO₂ or TiO₂, the ZrO₂ or TiO₂ may be present in an amount less than or equal to about 1 mol. %.

Based on the foregoing, it should be understood that, in a first exemplary embodiment, a glass composition may include: SiO₂ in a concentration greater than about 70 mol. % and Y mol. % alkali oxide. The alkali oxide may include Na₂O in an amount greater than about 8 mol. %. The glass composition may be free of boron and compounds of boron. The concentration of SiO₂ in this glass composition may be greater than or equal to about 72 mol. %, greater than 73 mol. % or even greater than 74 mol. %. The glass composition of this first exemplary embodiment may be free from phosphorous and compounds of phosphorous. The glass composition may also include X mol. % Al₂O₃. When Al₂O₃ is included, the ratio of Y:X may be greater than 1. The concentration of Al₂O₃ may be greater than or equal to about 2 mol. % and less than or equal to about 10 mol. %.

The glass composition of this first exemplary embodiment may also include alkaline earth oxide in an amount from about 3 mol. % to about 13 mol. %. The alkaline earth oxide may include MgO and CaO. The CaO may be present in an amount greater than or equal to about 0.1 mol. % and less than or equal to about 1.0 mol. %. A ratio (CaO (mol. %)/(CaO (mol. %)+MgO (mol. %))) may be less than or equal to 0.5.

In a second exemplary embodiment, a glass composition may include: greater than about 68 mol. % SiO₂; X mol. % Al₂O₃; Y mol. % alkali oxide; and B₂O₃. The alkali oxide may include Na₂O in an amount greater than about 8 mol %. A ratio (B₂O₃ (mol. %)/(Y mol. %−X mol. %) may be greater than 0 and less than 0.3. The concentration of SiO₂ in this glass composition may be greater than or equal to about 72 mol. %, greater than 73 mol. % or even greater than 74 mol. %. The concentration of Al₂O₃ may be greater than or equal to about 2 mol. % and less than or equal to about 10 mol. %. In this second exemplary embodiment, the ratio of Y:X may be greater than 1. When the ratio of Y:X is greater than 1, an upper bound of the ratio of Y:X may be less than or equal to 2. The glass composition of this first exemplary embodiment may be free from phosphorous and compounds of phosphorous.

The glass composition of this second exemplary embodiment may also include alkaline earth oxide. The alkaline earth oxide may include MgO and CaO. The CaO may be present in an amount greater than or equal to about 0.1 mol. % and less than or equal to about 1.0 mol. %. A ratio (CaO (mol. %)/(CaO (mol. %)+MgO (mol. %))) may be less than or equal to 0.5.

The concentration of B₂O₃ in this second exemplary embodiment may be greater than or equal to about 0.01 mol. % and less than or equal to about 4 mol. %.

In a third exemplary embodiment, a glass article may have a type HgB1 hydrolytic resistance according to ISO 719. The glass article may include greater than about 8 mol. % Na₂O and less than about 4 mol. % B₂O₃. The glass article may further comprise X mol. % Al₂O₃ and Y mol. % alkali oxide. The ratio (B₂O₃ (mol. %)/(Y mol. %−X mol. %) may be greater than 0 and less than 0.3. The glass article of this third exemplary embodiment may further include a compressive stress layer having a surface compressive stress greater than or equal to about 250 MPa. The glass article may also have at least a class S3 acid resistance according to DIN 12116; at least a class A2 base resistance according to ISO 695; and a type HgA1 hydrolytic resistance according to ISO 720.

In a fourth exemplary embodiment, a glass pharmaceutical package may include SiO₂ in an amount greater than about 70 mol. %; X mol. % Al₂O₃; and Y mol. % alkali oxide. The alkali oxide may include Na₂O in an amount greater than about 8 mol. %. A ratio of a concentration of B₂O₃ (mol. %) in the glass pharmaceutical package to (Y mol. %−X mol. %) may be less than 0.3. The glass pharmaceutical package may also have a type HGB1 hydrolytic resistance according to ISO 719. The concentration of SiO₂ in the glass pharmaceutical package of this fourth exemplary embodiment may be greater than or equal to 72 mol. % and less than or equal to about 78 mol. % or even greater than 74 mol. % and less than or equal to about 78 mol. %. The concentration of Al₂O₃ in the glass pharmaceutical may be greater than or equal to about 4 mol. % and less than or equal to about 8 mol. %. A ratio of Y:X may be greater than 1 and less than 2.

The glass pharmaceutical package of this fourth exemplary embodiment may also include alkaline earth oxide in an amount from about 4 mol. % to about 8 mol. %. The alkaline earth oxide may include MgO and CaO. The CaO may be present in an amount greater than or equal to about 0.2 mol. % and less than or equal to about 0.7 mol. %. A ratio (CaO (mol. %)/(CaO (mol. %)+MgO (mol. %))) may be less than or equal to 0.5. The glass pharmaceutical package of this fourth exemplary embodiment may have a type HGA1 hydrolytic resistance according to ISO 720.

In a fifth exemplary embodiment, a glass composition may include from about 70 mol. % to about 80 mol. % SiO₂; from about 3 mol. % to about 13 mol. % alkaline earth oxide; X mol. % Al₂O₃; and Y mol. % alkali oxide. The alkali oxide may include Na₂O in an amount greater than about 8 mol. %. A ratio of Y:X may be greater than 1. The glass composition may be free of boron and compounds of boron.

In a sixth exemplary embodiment, a glass composition may include from about 68 mol. % to about 80 mol. % SiO₂; from about 3 mol. % to about 13 mol. % alkaline earth oxide; X mol. % Al₂O₃; and Y mol. % alkali oxide. The alkali oxide may include Na₂O in an amount greater than about 8 mol. %. The glass composition of this sixth exemplary embodiment may also include B₂O₃. A ratio (B₂O₃ (mol. %)/(Y mol. %−X mol. %) may be greater than 0 and less than 0.3. A ratio of Y:X may be greater than 1.

In a seventh exemplary embodiment, a glass composition may include from about 70 mol. % to about 80 mol. % SiO₂; from about 3 mol. % to about 13 mol. % alkaline earth oxide; X mol. % Al₂O₃; and Y mol. % alkali oxide. The amount of Al₂O₃ in the glass composition may be greater than or equal to about 2 mol. % and less than or equal to about 10 mol. %. The alkaline earth oxide may include CaO in an amount greater than or equal to about 0.1 mol. % and less than or equal to about 1.0 mol. %. The alkali oxide may include from about 0.01 mol. % to about 1.0 mol. % K₂O. A ratio of Y:X may be greater than 1. The glass composition may be free of boron and compounds of boron. The glass composition may be amenable to strengthening by ion exchange.

In a seventh exemplary embodiment, a glass composition may include SiO₂ in an amount greater than about 70 mol. % and less than or equal to about 80 mol. %; X mol. % Al₂O₃; and Y mol. % alkali oxide. The alkali oxide may include Na₂O in an amount greater than about 8 mol. %. A ratio of a concentration of B₂O₃ (mol. %) in the glass pharmaceutical package to (Y mol. %−X mol. %) may be less than 0.3. A ratio of Y:X may be greater than 1.

In an eighth exemplary embodiment, a glass composition may include from about 72 mol. % to about 78 mol. % SiO₂; from about 4 mol. % to about 8 mol. % alkaline earth oxide; X mol. % Al₂O₃, wherein X is greater than or equal to about 4 mol. % and less than or equal to about 8 mol. %; and Y mol. % alkali oxide, wherein the alkali oxide comprises Na₂O in an amount greater than or equal to about 9 mol. % and less than or equal to about 15 mol. %. A ratio of a concentration of B₂O₃ (mol. %) in the glass pharmaceutical package to (Y mol. %−X mol. %) is less than 0.3. A ratio of Y:X may be greater than 1.

In a ninth exemplary embodiment, a pharmaceutical package for containing a pharmaceutical composition may include from about 70 mol. % to about 78 mol. % SiO₂; from about 3 mol. % to about 13 mol. % alkaline earth oxide; X mol. % Al₂O₃, wherein X is greater than or equal to 2 mol. % and less than or equal to about 10 mol. %; and Y mol. % alkali oxide, wherein the alkali oxide comprises Na₂O in an amount greater than about 8 mol. %. The alkaline earth oxide may include CaO in an amount less than or equal to about 6.0 mol. %. A ratio of Y:X may be greater than about 1. The package may be free of boron and compounds of boron and may include a compressive stress layer with a compressive stress greater than or equal to about 250 MPa and a depth of layer greater than or equal to about 10 μm.

In a tenth exemplary embodiment, a glass article may be formed from a glass composition comprising from about 70 mol. % to about 78 mol. % SiO₂; alkaline earth oxide, wherein the alkaline earth oxide comprises MgO and CaO and a ratio (CaO (mol. %)/(CaO (mol. %)+MgO (mol. %))) is less than or equal to 0.5; X mol. % Al₂O₃, wherein X is from about 2 mol. % to about 10 mol. %; and Y mol. % alkali oxide, wherein the alkali oxide comprises Na₂O in an amount greater than about 8 mol. % and a ratio of Y:X is greater than 1. The glass article may be ion exchange strengthened with a compressive stress greater than or equal to 250 MPa and a depth of layer greater than or equal to 10 μm. The glass article may have a type HgA1 hydrolytic resistance according to ISO 720.

As noted above, the presence of alkali oxides in the glass composition facilitates chemically strengthening the glass by ion exchange. Specifically, alkali ions, such as potassium ions, sodium ions and the like, are sufficiently mobile in the glass to facilitate ion exchange. In some embodiments, the glass composition is ion exchangeable to form a compressive stress layer having a depth of layer greater than or equal to 10 μm. In some embodiments, the depth of layer may be greater than or equal to about 25 μm or even greater than or equal to about 50 μm. In some other embodiments, the depth of the layer may be greater than or equal to 75 μm or even greater than or equal to 100 μm. In still other embodiments, the depth of layer may be greater than or equal to 10 μm and less than or equal to about 100 μm. The associated surface compressive stress may be greater than or equal to about 250 MPa, greater than or equal to 300 MPa or even greater than or equal to about 350 MPa after the glass composition is treated in a salt bath of 100% molten KNO₃ at a temperature of 350° C. to 500° C. for a time period of less than about 30 hours or even about less than 20 hours.

The glass articles formed from the glass compositions described herein may have a hydrolytic resistance of HGB2 or even HGB1 under ISO 719 and/or a hydrolytic resistance of HGA2 or even HGA1 under ISO 720 (as described further herein) in addition to having improved mechanical characteristics due to ion exchange strengthening. In some embodiments described herein the glass articles may have compressive stresses which extend from the surface into the glass article to a depth of layer greater than or equal to 25 μm or even greater than or equal to 35 μm. In some embodiments, the depth of layer may be greater than or equal to 40 μm or even greater than or equal to 50 μm. The surface compressive stress of the glass article may be greater than or equal to 250 MPa, greater than or equal to 350 MPa, or even greater than or equal to 400 MPa. The glass compositions described herein facilitate achieving the aforementioned depths of layer and surface compressive stresses more rapidly and/or at lower temperatures than conventional glass compositions due to the enhanced alkali ion diffusivity of the glass compositions as described hereinabove. For example, the depths of layer (i.e., greater than or equal to 25 μm) and the compressive stresses (i.e., greater than or equal to 250 MPa) may be achieved by ion exchanging the glass article in a molten salt bath of 100% KNO₃ (or a mixed salt bath of KNO₃ and NaNO₃) for a time period of less than or equal to 5 hours or even less than or equal to 4.5 hours. In some embodiments, these depths of layer and compressive stresses may be achieved by ion exchanging the glass article in a molten salt bath of 100% KNO₃ (or a mixed salt bath of KNO₃ and NaNO₃) for a time period of less than or equal to 4 hours or even less than or equal to 3.5 hours. Moreover, these depths of layers and compressive stresses may be achieved by ion exchanging the glass articles in a molten salt bath of 100% KNO₃ (or a mixed salt bath of KNO₃ and NaNO₃) at a temperature less than or equal to 500° C. or even less than or equal to 450° C. In some embodiments, these depths of layers and compressive stresses may be achieved by ion exchanging the glass articles in a molten salt bath of 100% KNO₃ (or a mixed salt bath of KNO₃ and NaNO₃) at a temperature less than or equal to 400° C. or even less than or equal to 350° C.

These improved ion exchange characteristics can be achieved when the glass composition has a threshold diffusivity of greater than about 16 μm²/hr or even greater than or equal to 20 μm²/hr at 450° C. In some embodiments, the threshold diffusivity may be greater than or equal to about 25 μm²/hr or even 30 μm²/hr at 450° C. In some other embodiments, the threshold diffusivity may be greater than or equal to about 35 μm²/hr or even 40 μm²/hr at 450° C. In still other embodiments, the threshold diffusivity may be greater than or equal to about 45 μm²/hr or even 50 μm²/hr at 450° C.

The glass compositions described herein may generally have a strain point greater than or equal to about 525° C. and less than or equal to about 650° C. The glasses may also have an anneal point greater than or equal to about 560° C. and less than or equal to about 725° C. and a softening point greater than or equal to about 750° C. and less than or equal to about 960° C.

In the embodiments described herein the glass compositions have a CTE of less than about 70×10⁻⁷K⁻¹ or even less than about 60×10⁻⁷K⁻¹. These lower CTE values improve the survivability of the glass to thermal cycling or thermal stress conditions relative to glass compositions with higher CTEs.

Further, as noted hereinabove, the glass compositions are chemically durable and resistant to degradation as determined by the DIN 12116 standard, the ISO 695 standard, and the ISO 720 standard.

Specifically, the DIN 12116 standard is a measure of the resistance of the glass to decomposition when placed in an acidic solution. In brief, the DIN 12116 standard utilizes a polished glass sample of a known surface area which is weighed and then positioned in contact with a proportional amount of boiling 6M hydrochloric acid for 6 hours. The sample is then removed from the solution, dried and weighed again. The glass mass lost during exposure to the acidic solution is a measure of the acid durability of the sample with smaller numbers indicative of greater durability. The results of the test are reported in units of half-mass per surface area, specifically mg/dm². The DIN 12116 standard is broken into individual classes. Class 51 indicates weight losses of up to 0.7 mg/dm²; Class S2 indicates weight losses from 0.7 mg/dm² up to 1.5 mg/dm²; Class S3 indicates weight losses from 1.5 mg/dm² up to 15 mg/dm²; and Class S4 indicates weight losses of more than 15 mg/dm².

The ISO 695 standard is a measure of the resistance of the glass to decomposition when placed in a basic solution. In brief, the ISO 695 standard utilizes a polished glass sample which is weighed and then placed in a solution of boiling 1M NaOH+0.5M Na₂CO₃ for 3 hours. The sample is then removed from the solution, dried and weighed again. The glass mass lost during exposure to the basic solution is a measure of the base durability of the sample with smaller numbers indicative of greater durability. As with the DIN 12116 standard, the results of the ISO 695 standard are reported in units of mass per surface area, specifically mg/dm². The ISO 695 standard is broken into individual classes. Class A1 indicates weight losses of up to 75 mg/dm²; Class A2 indicates weight losses from 75 mg/dm² up to 175 mg/dm²; and Class A3 indicates weight losses of more than 175 mg/dm².

The ISO 720 standard is a measure of the resistance of the glass to degradation in purified, CO₂-free water. In brief, the ISO 720 standard protocol utilizes crushed glass grains which are placed in contact with the purified, CO₂-free water under autoclave conditions (121° C., 2 atm) for 30 minutes. The solution is then titrated colorimetrically with dilute HCl to neutral pH. The amount of HCl required to titrate to a neutral solution is then converted to an equivalent of Na₂O extracted from the glass and reported in μg Na₂O per weight of glass with smaller values indicative of greater durability. The ISO 720 standard is broken into individual types. Type HGA1 is indicative of up to 62 μg extracted equivalent of Na₂O per gram of glass tested; Type HGA2 is indicative of more than 62 μg and up to 527 μg extracted equivalent of Na₂O per gram of glass tested; and Type HGA3 is indicative of more than 527 μg and up to 930 μg extracted equivalent of Na₂O per gram of glass tested.

The ISO 719 standard is a measure of the resistance of the glass to degradation in purified, CO₂-free water. In brief, the ISO 719 standard protocol utilizes crushed glass grains which are placed in contact with the purified, CO₂-free water at a temperature of 98° C. at 1 atmosphere for 30 minutes. The solution is then titrated colorimetrically with dilute HCl to neutral pH. The amount of HCl required to titrate to a neutral solution is then converted to an equivalent of Na₂O extracted from the glass and reported in μg Na₂O per weight of glass with smaller values indicative of greater durability. The ISO 719 standard is broken into individual types. The ISO 719 standard is broken into individual types. Type HGB1 is indicative of up to 31 μg extracted equivalent of Na₂O; Type HGB2 is indicative of more than 31 μg and up to 62 μg extracted equivalent of Na₂O; Type HGB3 is indicative of more than 62 μg and up to 264 μg extracted equivalent of Na₂O; Type HGB4 is indicative of more than 264 μg and up to 620 μg extracted equivalent of Na₂O; and Type HGB5 is indicative of more than 620 μg and up to 1085 μg extracted equivalent of Na₂O. The glass compositions described herein have an ISO 719 hydrolytic resistance of type HGB2 or better with some embodiments having a type HGB1 hydrolytic resistance.

The glass compositions described herein have an acid resistance of at least class S3 according to DIN 12116 both before and after ion exchange strengthening with some embodiments having an acid resistance of at least class S2 or even class 51 following ion exchange strengthening. In some other embodiments, the glass compositions may have an acid resistance of at least class S2 both before and after ion exchange strengthening with some embodiments having an acid resistance of class 51 following ion exchange strengthening. Further, the glass compositions described herein have a base resistance according to ISO 695 of at least class A2 before and after ion exchange strengthening with some embodiments having a class A1 base resistance at least after ion exchange strengthening. The glass compositions described herein also have an ISO 720 type HGA2 hydrolytic resistance both before and after ion exchange strengthening with some embodiments having a type HGA1 hydrolytic resistance after ion exchange strengthening and some other embodiments having a type HGA1 hydrolytic resistance both before and after ion exchange strengthening. The glass compositions described herein have an ISO 719 hydrolytic resistance of type HGB2 or better with some embodiments having a type HGB1 hydrolytic resistance. It should be understood that, when referring to the above referenced classifications according to DIN 12116, ISO 695, ISO 720 and ISO 719, a glass composition or glass article which has “at least” a specified classification means that the performance of the glass composition is as good as or better than the specified classification. For example, a glass article which has a DIN 12116 acid resistance of “at least class S2” may have a DIN 12116 classification of either 51 or S2.

The glass compositions described herein are formed by mixing a batch of glass raw materials (e.g., powders of SiO₂, Al₂O₃, alkali oxides, alkaline earth oxides and the like) such that the batch of glass raw materials has the desired composition. Thereafter, the batch of glass raw materials is heated to form a molten glass composition which is subsequently cooled and solidified to form the glass composition. During solidification (i.e., when the glass composition is plastically deformable) the glass composition may be shaped using standard forming techniques to shape the glass composition into a desired final form. Alternatively, the glass article may be shaped into a stock form, such as a sheet, tube or the like, and subsequently reheated and formed into the desired final form.

Pharmaceutical Containers

In view of the chemical durability of the glass composition of the present invention, the glass compositions described herein are particularly well suited for use in designing pharmaceutical containers for storing, maintaining and/or delivering pharmaceutical compositions, such as liquids, solutions, powders, e.g., lyophilized powders, solids and the like. As used herein, the term “pharmaceutical container” refers to a composition designed to store, maintain and/or deliver a pharmaceutical composition. The pharmaceutical containers, as described herein, are formed, at least in part, of the delamination resistant glass compositions described above. Pharmaceutical containers of the present invention include, but are not limited to, Vacutainers™, cartridges, syringes, ampoules, bottles, flasks, phials, tubes, beakers, vials, injection pens or the like. In a particular embodiment, the pharmaceutical container is a vial. In a particular embodiment, the pharmaceutical container is an ampoule. In a particular embodiment, the pharmaceutical container is an injection pen. In a particular embodiment, the pharmaceutical container is a tube. In a particular embodiment, the pharmaceutical container is a bottle. In a particular embodiment, the pharmaceutical container is a syringe.

Moreover, the ability to chemically strengthen the glass compositions through ion exchange can be utilized to improve the mechanical durability of pharmaceutical containers formed from the glass composition. Accordingly, it should be understood that, in at least one embodiment, the glass compositions are incorporated in a pharmaceutical container in order to improve the chemical durability and/or the mechanical durability of the pharmaceutical container.

Pharmaceutical Compositions

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical container further includes a pharmaceutical composition comprising an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). As used herein, the term “pharmaceutical composition” refers to a composition comprising an active pharmaceutical ingredient to be delivered to a subject, for example, for therapeutic, prophylactic, diagnostic, preventative or prognostic effect. In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises the active pharmaceutical ingredient and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. As used herein, “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” includes any and all solvents, dispersion media, coatings, antibacterial and antifungal agents, isotonic and absorption delaying agents, and the like that are physiologically compatible. Examples of pharmaceutically acceptable carriers include one or more of water, saline, phosphate buffered saline, dextrose, glycerol, ethanol and the like, as well as combinations thereof. In many cases, it may be preferable to include isotonic agents, for example, sugars, polyalcohols such as mannitol, sorbitol, or sodium chloride in the composition. Pharmaceutically acceptable carriers may further comprise minor amounts of auxiliary substances such as wetting or emulsifying agents, preservatives or buffers, which enhance the shelf life or effectiveness of the active pharmaceutical agent.

As used herein, the term “active pharmaceutical ingredient” or “API” refers a substance in a pharmaceutical composition that provides a desired effect, for example, a therapeutic, prophylactic, diagnostic, preventative or prognostic effect. In various embodiments, the active pharmaceutical ingredient can be any of a variety of substances known in the art, for example, a small molecule, a polypeptide mimetic, a biologic, an antisense RNA, a small interfering RNA (siRNA), etc.

For example, in a particular embodiment, the active pharmaceutical ingredient may be a small molecule. As used herein, the term “small molecule” includes any chemical or other moiety, other than polypeptides and nucleic acids, that can act to affect biological processes. Small molecules can include any number of therapeutic agents presently known and used, or that can be synthesized from a library of such molecules for the purpose of screening for biological function(s). Small molecules are distinguished from macromolecules by size. The small molecules of the present invention usually have a molecular weight less than about 5,000 daltons (Da), preferably less than about 2,500 Da, more preferably less than 1,000 Da, most preferably less than about 500 Da.

Small molecules include, without limitation, organic compounds, peptidomimetics and conjugates thereof. As used herein, the term “organic compound” refers to any carbon-based compound other than macromolecules such as nucleic acids and polypeptides. In addition to carbon, organic compounds may contain calcium, chlorine, fluorine, copper, hydrogen, iron, potassium, nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur and other elements. An organic compound may be in an aromatic or aliphatic form. Non-limiting examples of organic compounds include acetones, alcohols, anilines, carbohydrates, monosaccharides, oligosaccharides, polysaccharides, amino acids, nucleosides, nucleotides, lipids, retinoids, steroids, proteoglycans, ketones, aldehydes, saturated, unsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, oils and waxes, alkenes, esters, ethers, thiols, sulfides, cyclic compounds, heterocyclic compounds, imidizoles, and phenols. An organic compound as used herein also includes nitrated organic compounds and halogenated (e.g., chlorinated) organic compounds.

In another embodiment, the active pharmaceutical ingredient may be a polypeptide mimetic (“peptidomimetic”). As used herein, the term “polypeptide mimetic” is a molecule that mimics the biological activity of a polypeptide, but that is not peptidic in chemical nature. While, in certain embodiments, a peptidomimetic is a molecule that contains no peptide bonds (that is, amide bonds between amino acids), the term peptidomimetic may include molecules that are not completely peptidic in character, such as pseudo-peptides, semi-peptides, and peptoids.

In other embodiments, the active pharmaceutical ingredient may be a biologic. As used herein, the term “biologic” includes products created by biologic processes instead of by chemical synthesis. Non-limiting examples of a “biologic” include proteins, antibodies, antibody like molecules, vaccines, blood, blood components, and partially purified products from tissues.

The terms “peptide,” “polypeptide,” and “protein” are used interchangeably herein. In the present invention, these terms mean a linked sequence of amino acids, which may be natural, synthetic, or a modification or combination of natural and synthetic. The term includes antibodies, antibody mimetics, domain antibodies, lipocalins, and targeted proteases. The term also includes vaccines containing a peptide or peptide fragment intended to raise antibodies against the peptide or peptide fragment.

“Antibody” as used herein includes an antibody of classes IgG, IgM, IgA, IgD, or IgE, or fragments or derivatives thereof, including Fab, F(ab′)2, Fd, and single chain antibodies, diabodies, bispecific antibodies, and bifunctional antibodies. The antibody may be a monoclonal antibody, polyclonal antibody, affinity purified antibody, or mixtures thereof, which exhibits sufficient binding specificity to a desired epitope or a sequence derived therefrom. The antibody may also be a chimeric antibody. The antibody may be derivatized by the attachment of one or more chemical, peptide, or polypeptide moieties known in the art. The antibody may be conjugated with a chemical moiety. The antibody may be a human or humanized antibody.

Other antibody-like molecules are also within the scope of the present invention. Such antibody-like molecules include, e.g., receptor traps (such as entanercept), antibody mimetics (such as adnectins, fibronectin based “addressable” therapeutic binding molecules from, e.g., Compound Therapeutics, Inc.), domain antibodies (the smallest functional fragment of a naturally occurring single-domain antibody (such as, e.g., nanobodies; see, e.g., Cortez-Retamozo et al., Cancer Res. 2004 Apr. 15; 64 (8):2853-7)).

Suitable antibody mimetics generally can be used as surrogates for the antibodies and antibody fragments described herein. Such antibody mimetics may be associated with advantageous properties (e.g., they may be water soluble, resistant to proteolysis, and/or be nonimmunogenic). For example, peptides comprising a synthetic beta-loop structure that mimics the second complementarity-determining region (CDR) of monoclonal antibodies have been proposed and generated. See, e.g., Saragovi et al., Science. Aug. 16, 1991; 253 (5021):792-5. Peptide antibody mimetics also have been generated by use of peptide mapping to determine “active” antigen recognition residues, molecular modeling, and a molecular dynamics trajectory analysis, so as to design a peptide mimic containing antigen contact residues from multiple CDRs. See, e.g., Cassett et al., Biochem Biophys Res Commun. Jul. 18, 2003; 307 (1):198-205. Additional discussion of related principles, methods, etc., that may be applicable in the context of this invention are provided in, e.g., Fassina, Immunomethods. October 1994; 5 (2):121-9.

In various embodiments, the active pharmaceutical ingredient may have any of a variety of activities selected from the group consisting of anti-rheumatics, anti-neoplastic, vaccines, anti-diabetics, haematologicals, muscle relaxant, immunostimulants, anti-coagulants, bone calcium regulators, sera and gammaglobulins, anti-fibrinolytics, MS therapies, anti-anaemics, cytostatics, interferons, anti-metabolites, radiopharmaceuticals, anti-psychotics, anti-bacterials, immunosuppressants, cytotoxic antibiotics, cerebral & peripheral vasotherapeutics, nootropics, CNS drugs, dermatologicals, angiotensin antagonists, anti-spasmodics, anti-cholinergics, interferons, anti-psoriasis agents, anti-hyperlipidaemics, cardiac therapies, alkylating agents, bronchodilators, anti-coagulants, anti-inflammatories, growth hormones, and diagnostic imaging agents.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition may be selected from the group consisting of, for example, RITUXAN® (rituximab), AVASTIN® (Bevacizumab), LUCENTIS® (Ranibizumab) or HERCEPTIN® (trastuzumab).

In a particular embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition comprises RITUXAN®. In a particular embodiment, the active pharmaceutical ingredient is an antibody that binds CD20, for example, a chimeric antibody such as Rituximab. Rituximab (RITUXAN®) is a recombinant chimeric murine/human monoclonal IgG1 kappa antibody that is indicated for the treatment Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, rheumatoid arthritis in adults with moderately-to severely-active disease who have inadequate response to one or more TNF antagonist therapies, granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's Granulomatosis), and microscopic polyangiitis in adult patients.

Rituximab, having a molecular weight of approximately 145 kD, binds to the CD20 antigen via the Fab domain. The Fc domain of the antibody recruits immune effector functions to mediate B-cell lysis in vitro. The CD20 antigen is also known as the human B-lymphocyte-restricted differentiation antigen, Bp35 and is a hydrophobic transmembrane protein found on pre-B and mature B lymphocytes. The antigen is expressed on >90% of B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, but it is not found on hematopoietic stem cells, pro-B-cells, normal plasma cells or other normal tissues. In the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis B cells may be acting at multiple sites in the autoimmune/inflammatory process.

Rituximab is supplied in as a clear, colorless, preservative-free liquid at a concentration of 10 mg/mL in either 100 mg/10 mL or 500 mg/50 mL single-use vials at a pH of 6.5. In addition to rituximab, the drug product is formulated in polysorbate 80 (0.7 mg/mL), sodium citrate dihydrate (7.35 mg/mL), sodium chloride (9 mg/mL), and water.

In a particular embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition comprises AVASTIN®. In a particular embodiment, the active pharmaceutical ingredient is an antibody that binds vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), for example, a humanized antibody such as bevacizumab. Bevacizumab (AVASTIN®) is a recombinant humanized monoclonal IgG1 antibody that is indicated as a first- or second-line treatment of patients with metastatic carcinoma of the colon or rectum in combination with intravenous 5-fluorouracil-based chemotherapy; as a first-line treatment of unresectable, locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel; as a treatment for glioblastoma with progressive disease in adult patients following prior therapy as a single agent; and as a treatment for metastatic renal cell carcinoma in combination with interferon alfa.

Bevacizumab, comprised of human framework regions and the complementarity-determining regions of a murine antibody that binds to endothelial growth factor (VEGF), binds to human vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and inhibits angiogenesis. The antibody-VEGF protein complex is unable to bind to the Flt-1 or KDR receptors on endothelial cells thereby inhibiting microvascular growth. Bevacizumab has a molecular weight of approximately 149 kD and is supplied as a clear to slightly opalescent, colorless to pale brown liquid in a vial. The drug product is supplied in either a 100 mg or 400 mg dose in buffered water to a pH of about 6.2.

The 100 mg dose comprises water, 240 mg α,α-trehalose dihydrate, 23.2 mg sodium phosphate (monobasic, monohydrate), 4.8 mg sodium phosphate (dibasic, anhydrous), and 1.6 mg polysorbate 20 in a total volume of 4.0 mL. The 400 mg dose comprises water, 960 mg α,α-trehalose dihydrate, 92.8 mg sodium phosphate (monobasic, monohydrate), 19.2 mg sodium phosphate (dibasic, anhydrous), and 6.4 mg polysorbate 20 in a total volume of 16.0 mL.

In a particular embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition comprises LUCENTIS®. In a particular embodiment, the active pharmaceutical ingredient is an antibody, or antibody fragment thereof, that binds human vascular endothelial growth factor-A, for example, ranibizumab. Ranibizumab (LUCENTIS®) is a recombinant humanized IgG1 kappa isotype monoclonal antibody fragment designed for intraocular use that is presently indicated for the treatment of patients with Neovascular (Wet) Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), Macular Edema Following Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO), and Diabetic Macular Edema (DME).

Ranibizumab, having a molecular weight of approximately 48 kD, binds to and inhibits the biologic activity of human vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A). Ranibizumab, which lacks an Fc region, is produced by an E. coli expression system in a nutrient medium containing the antibiotic tetracycline. Tetracycline is not detectable in the final product. Ranibizumab binds to the receptor binding site of active forms of VEGF-A, including the biologically active, cleaved form of this molecule, VEGF110. VEGF-A has been shown to cause neovascularization and leakage in models of ocular angiogenesis and vascular occlusion and is thought to contribute to pathophysiology of neovascular AMD, macular edema following RVO, and DME. The binding of ranibizumab to VEGF-A prevents the interaction of VEGF-A with its receptors (VEGFR1 and VEGFR2) on the surface of endothelial cells, reducing endothelial cell proliferation, vascular leakage, and new blood vessel formation.

Ranibizumab is currently supplied as single-use glass vial for intravitreal injections as an aqueous solution with histidine HCl, α,α-trehalose dihydrate, and polysorbate 20 at a pH of 5.5.

In a particular embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition is HERCEPTIN®. In a particular embodiment, the active pharmaceutical ingredient is an antibody that binds HER2, for example, trastuzumab. Trastuzumab (HERCEPTIN®) is a humanized IgG1 kappa monoclonal antibody that is indicated for the treatment of HER2 overexpressing breast cancer and HER2-overexpressing metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma. HERCEPTIN® selectively binds to the extracellular domain of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 protein, HER2, and inhibits the growth of human tumor cells that overexpress the antigen.

Trastuzumab is supplied as a sterile, white to pale yellow, preservative-free lyophilized powder in multi-use vials. Each vial contains 440 mg trastuzumab, 400 mg α,α-trehalose dihydrate, 9.9 mg L-histidine HCl, 6.4 mg L-histidine, and 1.8 mg polysorbate 20. The lyophilized trastuzumab is reconstituted to a 21 mg/mL solution with 20 mL water and has a pH of approximately 6.

Degradation and Stability of Pharmaceutical Compositions

According to the present invention, delamination resistant pharmaceutical containers comprising a glass composition provide for improved resistance to degradation of, improved stability of, improved resistance to inactivation of, and improved maintenance of levels of a pharmaceutical composition having at least one active pharmaceutical ingredient, for example, RITUXAN® (rituximab), AVASTIN® (Bevacizumab), LUCENTIS® (Ranibizumab) or HERCEPTIN® (trastuzumab).

In one embodiment of the present invention, the delamination resistant pharmaceutical containers provide improved stability to pharmaceutical compositions contained therein, for example, RITUXAN® (rituximab), AVASTIN® (Bevacizumab), LUCENTIS® (Ranibizumab) or HERCEPTIN® (trastuzumab). As used herein, the term “stability” refers to the ability of an active pharmaceutical ingredient to essentially retain its physical, chemical and conformational identity and integrity upon storage in the pharmaceutical containers of the invention. Stability is associated with the ability of an active pharmaceutical ingredient to retain its potency and efficacy over a period of time. Instability of an active pharmaceutical ingredient may be associated with, for example, chemical or physical degradation, fragmentation, conformational change, increased toxicity, aggregation (e.g., to form higher order polymers), deglycosylation, modification of glycosylation, oxidation, hydrolysis, or any other structural, chemical or physical modification. Such physical, chemical and/or conformational changes often result in reduced activity or inactivation of the active pharmaceutical ingredient, for example, such that at least one biological activity of the active pharmaceutical ingredient is reduced or eliminated. Alternatively or in addition, such physical, chemical and/or conformational changes often result in the formation of structures toxic to the subject to whom the pharmaceutical composition is administered.

The pharmaceutical containers of the present invention maintain stability of the pharmaceutical compositions, in part, by minimizing or eliminating delamination of the glass composition which forms, at least in part, the pharmaceutical container. In addition, the pharmaceutical containers of the present invention maintain stability of the pharmaceutical compositions, in part, by reducing or preventing the interaction of the active pharmaceutical ingredient with the pharmaceutical container and/or delaminated particles resulting therefrom. By minimizing or eliminating delamination and, further, by reducing or preventing interaction, the pharmaceutical containers thereby reduce or prevent the destabilization of the active pharmaceutical ingredient as found in, for example, RITUXAN® (rituximab), AVASTIN® (Bevacizumab), LUCENTIS® (Ranibizumab) or HERCEPTIN® (trastuzumab).

The pharmaceutical containers of the present invention provide the additional advantage of preventing loss of active pharmaceutical ingredients. For example, by reducing or preventing the interaction of and, thus, the adherence of, the active pharmaceutical ingredient with the pharmaceutical container and/or delaminated particles resulting therefrom, the level of active pharmaceutical ingredient available for administration to a subject is maintained, as found in, for example, RITUXAN® (rituximab), AVASTIN® (Bevacizumab), LUCENTIS® (Ranibizumab) or HERCEPTIN® (trastuzumab).

In one embodiment of the present invention, the pharmaceutical composition has a high pH. According to the present invention, it has been discovered that high pHs serve to increase delamination of glass compositions. Accordingly, the pharmaceutical containers of the present invention are particularly suitable for storing and maintaining pharmaceutical compositions having a high pH, for example, pharmaceutical compositions having a pH between about 7 and about 11, between about 7 and about 10, between about 7 and about 9, or between about 7 and about 8.

In additional embodiments, the pharmaceutical containers of the present invention are particularly suitable for storing and maintaining pharmaceutical compositions having phosphate or citrate based buffers. According to the present invention, it has been discovered that phosphate or citrate based buffers serve to increase delamination of glass compositions. According in particular embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition includes a buffer comprising a salt of citrate, e.g., sodium citrate, or SSC. In other embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition includes a buffer comprising a salt of phosphate, e.g., mono or disodium phosphate.

In additional embodiments, the pharmaceutical containers of the present invention are particularly suitable for storing and maintaining active pharmaceutical ingredient that needs to be subsequently formulated. In other embodiments, the pharmaceutical containers of the present invention are particularly suitable for storing and maintaining a lyophilized pharmaceutical composition or active pharmaceutical ingredient that requires reconstitution, for example, by addition of saline.

Assaying for Delamination of Pharmaceutical Containers

As noted above, delamination may result in the release of silica-rich glass flakes into a solution contained within the glass container after extended exposure to the solution. Accordingly, the resistance to delamination may be characterized by the number of glass particulates present in a solution contained within the glass container after exposure to the solution under specific conditions. In order to assess the long-term resistance of the glass container to delamination, an accelerated delamination test was utilized. The test consisted of washing the glass container at room temperature for 1 minute and depyrogenating the container at about 320° C. for 1 hour. Thereafter a solution of 20 mM glycine with a pH of 10 in water is placed in the glass container to 80-90% fill, the glass container is closed, and rapidly heated to 100° C. and then heated from 100° C. to 121° C. at a ramp rate of 1 deg/min at a pressure of 2 atmospheres. The glass container and solution are held at this temperature for 60 minutes, cooled to room temperature at a rate of 0.5 deg./min and the heating cycle and hold are repeated. The glass container is then heated to 50° C. and held for two days for elevated temperature conditioning. After heating, the glass container is dropped from a distance of at least 18″ onto a firm surface, such as a laminated tile floor, to dislodge any flakes or particles that are weakly adhered to the inner surface of the glass container.

Thereafter, the solution contained in the glass container is analyzed to determine the number of glass particles present per liter of solution. Specifically, the solution from the glass container is directly poured onto the center of a Millipore Isopore Membrane filter (Millipore #ATTP02500 held in an assembly with parts #AP1002500 and #M000025A0) attached to vacuum suction to draw the solution through the filter within 10-15 seconds. Particulate flakes are then counted by differential interference contrast microscopy (DIC) in the reflection mode as described in “Differential interference contrast (DIC) microscopy and modulation contrast microscopy” from Fundamentals of light microscopy and digital imaging. New York: Wiley-Liss, pp 153-168. The field of view is set to approximately 1.5 mm×1.5 mm and particles larger than 50 microns are counted manually. There are 9 such measurements made in the center of each filter membrane in a 3×3 pattern with no overlap between images. A minimum of 100 mL of solution is tested. As such, the solution from a plurality of small containers may be pooled to bring the total amount of solution to 100 mL. If the containers contain more than 10 mL of solution, the entire amount of solution from the container is examined for the presence of particles. For containers having a volume greater than 10 mL, the test is repeated for a trial of 10 containers formed from the same glass composition under the same processing conditions and the result of the particle count is averaged for the 10 containers to determine an average particle count. Alternatively, in the case of small containers, the test is repeated for a trial of 10 sets of 10 mL of solution, each of which is analyzed and the particle count averaged over the 10 sets to determine an average particle count. Averaging the particle count over multiple containers accounts for potential variations in the delamination behavior of individual containers. Table 7 summarizes some non-limiting examples of sample volumes and numbers of containers for testing is shown below:

TABLE 7 Table of Exemplary Test Specimens Nominal Total Vial Vial Max Minimum Number of solution Capacity Volume Solution per Vials in a Number of Tested (mL) (mL) Vial (mL) Trial Trials (mL) 2 4 3.2 4 10 128 3.5 7 5.6 2 10 112 4 6 4.8 3 10 144 5 10 8 2 10 160 6 10 8 2 10 160 8 11.5 9.2 2 10 184 10 13.5 10.8 1 10 108 20 26 20.8 1 10 208 30 37.5 30 1 10 300 50 63 50.4 1 10 504

It should be understood that the aforementioned test is used to identify particles which are shed from the interior wall(s) of the glass container due to delamination and not tramp particles present in the container from forming processes or particles which precipitate from the solution enclosed in the glass container as a result of reactions between the solution and the glass. Specifically, delamination particles may be differentiated from tramp glass particles based on the aspect ratio of the particle (i.e., the ratio of the width of the particle to the thickness of the particle). Delamination produces particulate flakes or lamellae which are irregularly shaped and are typically >50 μm in diameter but often >200 μm. The thickness of the flakes is usually greater than about 100 nm and may be as large as about 1 μm. Thus, the minimum aspect ratio of the flakes is typically >50. The aspect ratio may be greater than 100 and sometimes greater than 1000. Particles resulting from delamination processes generally have an aspect ratio which is generally greater than about 50. In contrast, tramp glass particles will generally have a low aspect ratio which is less than about 3. Accordingly, particles resulting from delamination may be differentiated from tramp particles based on aspect ratio during observation with the microscope. Validation results can be accomplished by evaluating the heel region of the tested containers. Upon observation, evidence of skin corrosion/pitting/flake removal, as described in “Nondestructive Detection of Glass Vial Inner Surface Morphology with Differential Interference Contrast Microscopy” from Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences 101(4), 2012, pages 1378-1384, is noted.

In the embodiments described herein, glass containers which average less than 3 glass particles with a minimum width of 50 μm and an aspect ratio of greater than 50 per trial following accelerated delamination testing are considered “delamination resistant.” In the embodiments described herein, glass containers which average less than 2 glass particles with a minimum width of 50 μm and an aspect ratio of greater than 50 per trial following accelerated delamination testing are considered “delamination-stable.” In the embodiments described herein, glass containers which average less than 1 glass particle with a minimum width of 50 μm and an aspect ratio of greater than 50 per trial following accelerated delamination testing are considered “delamination-proof.” In the embodiments described herein, glass containers which have 0 glass particles with a minimum width of 50 μm and an aspect ratio of greater than 50 per trial following accelerated delamination testing are considered “delamination-free”.

Assessing Stability of Pharmaceutical Compositions

As set forth above, any of a variety of active pharmaceutical ingredients can be incorporated within the claimed pharmaceutical container including, for example, a small molecule, a polypeptide mimetic, a biologic, an antisense RNA, a small interfering RNA (siRNA), etc. These active ingredients degrade in varying manners and, thus, assessing the stability thereof in the pharmaceutical containers of the present invention requires different techniques.

Depending on the nature of the active pharmaceutical ingredient, the stability, maintenance and/or continued efficacy of the pharmaceutical compositions contained within the delamination resistant pharmaceutical containers of the present invention can be evaluated as follows.

A. Biologics

Biologics API are often susceptible to degradation and/or inactivation arising from various factors, including pH, temperature, temperature cycling, light, humidity, etc. Biologics API are further susceptible to degradation, inactivation or loss, arising from interaction of the pharmaceutical composition with the pharmaceutical container, or delaminants leeching therefrom. For example, biologics may undergo physical degradation which may render the resulting pharmaceutical composition inactive, toxic or insufficient to achieve the desired effect. Alternatively, or in addition, biologics may undergo structural or conformational changes that can alter the activity of the API, with or without degradation. For example, proteins may undergo unfolding which can result in effective loss and inactivity of the API. Alternatively, or in addition, biologics may adhere to the surface of the container, thereby rendering the API administered to the subject insufficient to achieve the desired effect, e.g., therapeutic effect.

(i) General Methods for Investigation of Biologic Compound Degradation

Depending on the size and complexity of the biologic, methods for analysis of degradation of non-biologic, small molecule API may be applied to biologics. For example, peptides and nucleic acids can be analyzed using any of a number of chromatography and spectrometry techniques applicable to small molecules to determine the size of the molecules, either with or without protease or nuclease digestion. However, as proper secondary and tertiary structures are required for the activity of biologics, particularly protein biologics, confirmation of molecular weight is insufficient to confirm activity of biologics. Protein biologics containing complex post-translational modifications, e.g., glycosylation, are less amenable to analysis using chromatography and spectrometry. Moreover, complex biologics, e.g., vaccines which can include complex peptide mixtures, attenuated or killed viruses, or killed cells, are not amenable to analysis by most chromatography or spectrometry methods.

(ii) In Vitro Functional Assays for Investigation of Compound Stability

One or more in vitro assays, optionally in combination with one or more in vivo assays, can be used to assess the stability and activity of the API. Functional assays to determine API stability can be selected based on the structural class of the API and the function of the API. Exemplary assays are provided below to confirm the activity of the API after stability and/or stress testing. It is understood that assays should be performed with the appropriate controls (e.g., vehicle controls, control API not subject to stress or stability testing) with a sufficient number of dilutions and replicate samples to provide data with sufficient statistical significance to detect changes in activity of 10% or less, preferably 5% or less, 4% or less, more preferably 3% or less, 2% or less, or 1% or less, as desired. Such considerations in the art are well understood.

For example, antibody based therapeutics, regardless of the disease or condition to be treated, can be assayed for stability and activity using assays that require specific binding of the antibody to its cognate antigen, e.g., ELISA. The antigen used in the ELISA should have the appropriate conformational structure as would be found in vivo. Antibody based API are used, for example, for the treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases including autoimmune diseases. Antibody based API include, but are not limited to, bevacizumab, rituximab, ranibizumab, or trastuzumab.

ELISA assays to assay the concentration of a protein biologic API are commercially available from a number of sources, e.g., R&D Systems, BD Biosciences, AbCam, Pierce, Invitrogen.

API are frequently targeted to receptors, particularly cell surface receptors. Receptor binding assays can be used to assess the activity of such agents. API that bind cell surface receptors can be agonists, antagonists or allosteric modulators. API that bind cell surface receptors need not bind the same location as the native ligand to modulate, for example, inhibit or enhance, signaling through the receptor. Depending on the activity of the API, an appropriate assay can be selected, e.g., assay for stimulation of receptor signaling when the API is a receptor agonist; and inhibition assay in which binding of an agonist, e.g., inhibition of activation by a receptor agonist by the API. Such assays can be used regardless of the disease(s) or condition(s) to be treated with the API. Modulation of cellular activity, e.g., cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell migration, modulation of expression of genes or proteins, differentiation, tube formation, etc. is assayed using routine methods. In other assay methods, a reporter construct is used to indicate activation of the receptor. Such methods are routine in the art. APIs that bind to cell surface receptors are used, for example, as anti-cancer agents, anti-diabetic agents, anti-inflammatory agents for the treatment of inflammatory mediated diseases including autoimmune disorders, anti-angiogenic agents, anti-cholinergic agents, bone calcium regulators, muscle and vascular tension regulators, and psychoactive agents. Modulators of cell proliferation can be assayed for activity using a cell proliferation assays. For example, cell proliferation is induced using anti-anemic agents or stimulators of hematopoietic cell growth. Anti-proliferative agents, e.g., cytotoxic agents, anti-neoplastic agents, chemotherapeutic agents, cytostatic agents, antibiotic agents, are used to inhibit growth of various cell types. Some anti-inflammatory agents also act by inhibiting proliferation of immune cells, e.g., blast cells. In proliferation assays, replicate wells containing the same number of cells are cultured in the presence of the API. The effect of the API is assessed using, for example, microscopy or fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) to determine if the number of cells in the sample increased or decreased in response to the presence of the API. It is understood that the cell type selected for the proliferation assay is dependent on the specific API to be tested. Modulators of cell proliferation include, but are not limited to, bevacizumab, rituximab, or ranibizumab.

Modulators of angiogenesis can be assayed using cell migration and/or tube formation assays. For cell migration assays, human vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs) are cultured in the presence of the API in transwell devices. Migration of cells through the device at the desired time intervals is assessed. Alternatively, 3-dimensional HUVECs cultures in MATRIGEL can be assessed for tube formation. Anti-angiogenic agents are used, for example, for the treatment of cancer, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Modulators of angiogenesis include, but are not limited to, bevacizumab or ranibizumab.

Anti-inflammatory API can be assayed for their effects on immune cell stimulation as determined, for example, by modulation of one or more of cytokine expression and secretion, antigen presentation, migration in response to cytokine or chemokine stimulation, and immune cell proliferation. In such assays, immune cells are cultured in the presence of the API and changes in immune cell activity are determined using routine methods in the art, e.g., ELISA and cell imaging and counting.

Anti-diabetic API can be assayed for their effects on insulin signaling, including insulin signaling in response to modulated glucose levels, and insulin secretion. Insulin signaling can be assessed by assessing kinase activation in response to exposure to insulin and/or modulation of glucose levels. Insulin secretion can be assessed by ELISA assay.

Modulators of blood clotting, i.e., fibrinolytics, anti-fibrinolytics, and anti-coagulants, can be assayed for their effects using an INR assay on serum by measuring prothrombin time to determine a prothrombin ratio. Time to formation of a clot is assayed in the presence or absence of the API.

Modulators of muscle or vascular tone can be assayed for their effects using vascular or muscle explants. The tissue can be placed in a caliper for detection of changes in length and/or tension. Whole coronary explants can be used to assess the activity of API on heart. The tissue is contacted with the API, and optionally agents to alter vascular tone (e.g., K⁺, Ca⁺⁺). The effects of the API on length and/or tension of the vasculature or muscle is assessed.

Psychoactive agents can act by modulation of neurotransmitter release and/or recycling. Neuronal cells can be incubated in the presence of an API and stimulated to release neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitter levels can be assessed in the culture medium collected at defined time points to detect alterations in the level of neurotransmitter present in the media. Neurotransmitters can be detected, for example, using ELISA, LC/MS/MS, or by preloading the vesicles with radioactive neurotransmitters to facilitate detection.

(iii) In Vivo Assays for Investigation of Compound Stability

In addition to in vitro testing for compound stability, API can also be tested in vivo to confirm the stability of the API after storage and/or stress testing. For example, some API are not amenable to testing using in vitro assays due to the complexity of the disease state or the complexity of the response required. For example, psychoactive agents, e.g., antipsychotic agents, anti-depressant agents, nootropic agents, immunosuppressant agents, vasotherapeutic agents, muscular dystrophy agents, central nervous system modulating agents, antispasmodic agents, bone calcium regenerating agents, anti-rheumatic agents, anti-hyperlipidemic agents, hematopoietic proliferation agents, growth factors, vaccine agents, and imaging agents, may not be amenable to full functional characterization using in vitro models. Moreover, for some agents, factors that may not alter in vitro activity may alter activity in vivo, e.g., antibody variable domains may be sufficient to block signaling through a receptor, but the Fc domains may be required for efficacy in the treatment of disease. Further, changes in stability may result in changes in pharmacokinetic properties of an API (e.g., half-life, serum protein binding, tissue distribution, CNS permeability). Finally, changes in stability may result in the generation of toxic degradation or reaction products that would not be detected in vivo. Therefore, confirmation of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties and toxicity in vivo is useful in conjunction with stability and stress testing.

(iv) Pharmacokinetic Assays

Pharmacokinetics includes the study of the mechanisms of absorption and distribution of an administered drug, the rate at which a drug action begins and the duration of the effect, the chemical changes of the substance in the body (e.g. by metabolic enzymes such as CYP or UGT enzymes) and the effects and routes of excretion of the metabolites of the drug. Pharmacokinetics is divided into several areas including the extent and rate of absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion. This is commonly referred to as the ADME scheme:

-   -   Absorption—the process of a substance entering the blood         circulation.     -   Distribution—the dispersion or dissemination of substances         throughout the fluids and tissues of the body.     -   Metabolism (or Biotransformation)—the irreversible         transformation of parent compounds into daughter metabolites.     -   Excretion—the removal of the substances from the body. In rare         cases, some drugs irreversibly accumulate in body tissue.     -   Elimination is the result of metabolism and excretion.

Pharmacokinetics describes how the body affects a specific drug after administration. Pharmacokinetic properties of drugs may be affected by elements such as the site of administration and the dose of administered drug, which may affect the absorption rate. Such factors cannot be fully assessed using in vitro models.

The specific pharmacokinetic properties to be assessed for a specific API in stability testing will depend, for example, on the specific API to be tested. In vitro pharmacokinetic assays can include assays of drug metabolism by isolated enzymes or by cells in culture. However, pharmacokinetic analysis typically requires analysis in vivo.

As pharmacokinetics are not concerned with the activity of the drug, but instead with the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of the drug, assays can be performed in normal subjects, rather than subjects suffering from a disease or condition for which the API is typically administered, by administration of a single dose of the API to the subject. However, if the subject to be treated with the API has a condition that would alter the metabolism or excretion of the API, e.g., liver disease, kidney disease, testing of the API in an appropriate disease model may be useful. Depending on the half life of the compound, samples (e.g., serum, urine, stool) are collected at predetermined time points for at least two, preferably three half-lives of the API, and analyzed for the presence of the API and metabolic products of the API. At the end of the study, organs are harvested and analyzed for the presence of the API and metabolic products of the API. The pharmacokinetic properties of the API subjected to stability and/or stress testing are compared to API not subjected to stability or stress testing and other appropriate controls (e.g., vehicle control). Changes in pharmacokinetic properties as a result of stability and/or stress testing are determined.

(v) Pharmacodynamic Assays

Pharmacodynamics includes the study of the biochemical and physiological effects of drugs on the body or on microorganisms or parasites within or on the body and the mechanisms of drug action and the relationship between drug concentration and effect. Due to the complex nature of many disease states and the actions of many API, the API should be tested in vivo to confirm the desired activity of the agent. Mouse models for a large variety of disease states are known and commercially available (see, e.g., jaxmice.jax.org/query/f?p=205:1:989373419139701::::P1_ADV:1). A number of induced models of disease are also known. Agents can be tested on the appropriate animal model to demonstrate stability and efficacy of the API on modulating the disease state.

(vi) Specific Immune Response Assay

Vaccines produce complex immune responses that are best assessed in vivo. The specific potency assay for a vaccine depends, at least in part, on the specific vaccine type. The most accurate predictions are based on mathematical modeling of biologically relevant stability-indicating parameters. For complex vaccines, e.g., whole cell vaccines, whole virus vaccines, complex mixtures of antigens, characterization of each component biochemically may be difficult, if not impossible. For example, when using a live, attenuated virus vaccine, the number of plaque forming units (e.g., mumps, measles, rubella, smallpox) or colony forming units (e.g., S. typhi, TY21a) are determined to confirm potency after storage. Chemical and physical characterization (e.g., polysaccharide and polysaccharide-protein conjugate vaccines) is performed to confirm the stability and activity of the vaccine. Serological response in animals to inactivated toxins and/or animal protection against challenge (e.g., rabies, anthrax, diphtheria, tetanus) is performed to confirm activity of vaccines of any type, particularly when the activity of the antigen has been inactivated. In vivo testing of vaccines subjected to stability and/or stress testing is performed by administering the vaccine to a subject using the appropriate immunization protocol for the vaccine, and determining the immune response by detection of specific immune cells that respond to stimulation with the antigen or pathogen, detection of antibodies against the antigen or pathogen, or protection in an immune challenge. Such methods are well known in the art. Vaccines include, but are not limited to, meningococcal B vaccine, hepatitis A and B vaccines, human papillomavirus vaccine, influenza vaccine, herpes zoster vaccine, and pneumococcal vaccine.

(vii) Toxicity Assays

Degradation of API can result in the formation of toxic agents. Toxicity assays include the administration of doses, typically far higher than would be used for therapeutic applications, to detect the presence of toxic products in the API. Toxicity assays can be performed in vitro and in vivo and are frequently single, high dose experiments. After administration of the compound, in addition to viability, organs are harvested and analyzed for any indication of toxicity, especially organs involved with clearance of API, e.g., liver, kidneys, and those for which damage could be catastrophic, e.g., heart, brain. The toxicologic properties of the API subjected to stability and/or stress testing are compared to API not subjected to stability or stress testing and other appropriate controls (e.g., vehicle control). Changes in toxicologic properties as a result of stability and/or stress testing are determined.

B. Small Molecules

In accordance with present invention, the degradation, alteration or depletion of small molecules contained within a delamination resistant pharmaceutical container of the present invention can be assessed by a variety of techniques. Indeed, in various aspects of the invention, the stability of a small molecule, degradation caused by the interaction of a small molecule with the container or delaminants thereof, or changes in concentration or amount of the small molecule in a container can be assessed using techniques as follows. Such methods include, e.g., X-Ray Diffraction (XRPD), Thermal Analysis (such as Differential Scanning calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetry (TG) and Hot-Stage Microscopy (HSM), chromatography methods (such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Column Chromatography (CC), Gas Chromatography (GC), Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC), and Super Critical Phase Chromatograph (SFC)), Mass Spectroscopy (MS), Capillary Electrophoresis (CE), Atomic Spectroscopy (AS), vibrational spectroscopy (such as Infrared Spectroscopy (IR)), Luminescence Spectroscopy (LS), and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR).

In the case of pharmaceutical formulations where the API is not in solution or needs to be reconstituted into a different medium, XRPD may be a method for analyzing degradation. In ideal cases, every possible crystalline orientation is represented equally in a non-liquid sample.

Powder diffraction data is usually presented as a diffractogram in which the diffracted intensity I is shown as function either of the scattering angle 20 or as a function of the scattering vector q. The latter variable has the advantage that the diffractogram no longer depends on the value of the wavelength λ. Relative to other methods of analysis, powder diffraction allows for rapid, non-destructive analysis of multi-component mixtures without the need for extensive sample preparation. Deteriorations of an API may be analyzed using this method, e.g., by comparing the diffraction pattern of the API to a known standard of the API prior to packaging.

Thermal methods of analysis may include, e.g., differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TG), and hot-stage microscopy (HSM). All three methods provide information upon heating the sample. Depending on the information required, heating can be static or dynamic in nature.

Differential scanning calorimetry monitors the energy required to maintain the sample and a reference at the same temperature as they are heated. A plot of heat flow (W/g or J/g) versus temperature is obtained. The area under a DSC peak is directly proportional to the heat absorbed or released and integration of the peak results in the heat of transition.

Thermogravimetry (TG) measures the weight change of a sample as a function of temperature. A total volatile content of the sample is obtained, but no information on the identity of the evolved gas is provided. The evolved gas must be identified by other methods, such as gas chromatography, Karl Fisher titration (specifically to measure water), TG—mass spectroscopy, or TG—infrared spectroscopy. The temperature of the volatilization and the presence of steps in the TG curve can provide information on how tightly water or solvent is held in the lattice. If the temperature of the TG volatilization is similar to an endothermic peak in the DSC, the DSC peak is likely due or partially due to volatilization. It may be necessary to utilize multiple techniques to determine if more than one thermal event is responsible for a given DSC peak.

Hot-Stage Microscopy (HSM) is a technique that supplements DSC and TG. Events observed by DSC and/or TG can be readily characterized by HSM. Melting, gas evolution, and solid—solid transformations can be visualized, providing the most straightforward means of identifying thermal events. Thermal analysis can be used to determine the melting points, recrystallizations, solid-state transformations, decompositions, and volatile contents of pharmaceutical materials.

Other methods to analyze degradation or alteration of API and excipients are infrared (IR) and Raman spectroscopy. These techniques are sensitive to the structure, conformation, and environment of organic compounds. Infrared spectroscopy is based on the conversion of IR radiation into molecular vibrations. For a vibration to be IR-active, it must involve a changing molecular dipole (asymmetric mode). For example, vibration of a dipolar carbonyl group is detectable by IR spectroscopy. Whereas IR has been traditionally used as an aid in structure elucidation, vibrational changes also serve as probes of intermolecular interactions in solid materials.

Raman spectroscopy is based on the inelastic scattering of laser radiation with loss of vibrational energy by a sample. A vibrational mode is Raman active when there is a change in the polarizability during the vibration. Symmetric modes tend to be Raman-active. For example, vibrations about bonds between the same atom, such as in alkynes, can be observed by Raman spectroscopy.

NMR spectroscopy probes atomic environments based on the different resonance frequencies exhibited by nuclei in a strong magnetic field. Many different nuclei are observable by the NMR technique, but those of hydrogen and carbon atoms are most frequently studied. Solid-state NMR measurements are extremely useful for characterizing the crystal forms of pharmaceutical solids. Nuclei that are typically analyzed with this technique include those of 13C, 31P, 15N, 25Mg, and 23Na.

Chromatography is a general term applied to a wide variety of separation techniques based on the sample partitioning between a moving phase, which can be a gas, liquid, or supercritical fluid, and a stationary phase, which may be either a liquid or a solid. Generally, the crux of chromatography lies in the highly selective chemical interactions that occur in both the mobile and stationary phases. For example, depending on the API and the separation required, one or more of absorption, ion-exchange, size-exclusion, bonded phase, reverse, or normal phase stationary phases may be employed.

Mass spectrometry (MS) is an analytical technique that works by ionizing chemical compounds to generate charged molecules or molecule fragments and measuring their mass-to-charge ratios. Based on this analysis method, one can determine, e.g., the isotopic composition of elements in an API and determine the structure of the API by observing its fragmentation pattern.

It would be understood that the foregoing methods do not represent a comprehensive list of means by which one can analyze possible deteriorations, alterations, or concentrations of certain APIs. Therefore, it would be understood that other methods for determining the physical amounts and/or characteristics of an API may be employed. Additional methods may include, but are not limited to, e.g., Capillary Electrophoresis (CE), Atomic Spectroscopy (AS), and Luminescence Spectroscopy (LS).

EXAMPLES

The embodiments of the delamination resistant pharmaceutical containers described herein will be further clarified by the following examples.

Example 1

Six exemplary inventive glass compositions (compositions A-F) were prepared. The specific compositions of each exemplary glass composition are reported below in Table 8. Multiple samples of each exemplary glass composition were produced. One set of samples of each composition was ion exchanged in a molten salt bath of 100% KNO₃ at a temperature of 450° C. for at least 5 hours to induce a compressive layer in the surface of the sample. The compressive layer had a surface compressive stress of at least 500 MPa and a depth of layer of at least 45 μm.

The chemical durability of each exemplary glass composition was then determined utilizing the DIN 12116 standard, the ISO 695 standard, and the ISO 720 standard described above. Specifically, non-ion exchanged test samples of each exemplary glass composition were subjected to testing according to one of the DIN 12116 standard, the ISO 695 standard, or the ISO 720 standard to determine the acid resistance, the base resistance or the hydrolytic resistance of the test sample, respectively. The hydrolytic resistance of the ion exchanged samples of each exemplary composition was determined according to the ISO 720 standard. The average results of all samples tested are reported below in Table 8.

As shown in Table 8, exemplary glass compositions A-F all demonstrated a glass mass loss of less than 5 mg/dm² and greater than 1 mg/dm² following testing according to the DIN 12116 standard with exemplary glass composition E having the lowest glass mass loss at 1.2 mg/dm². Accordingly, each of the exemplary glass compositions were classified in at least class S3 of the DIN 12116 standard, with exemplary glass composition E classified in class S2. Based on these test results, it is believed that the acid resistance of the glass samples improves with increased SiO₂ content.

Further, exemplary glass compositions A-F all demonstrated a glass mass loss of less than 80 mg/dm² following testing according to the ISO 695 standard with exemplary glass composition A having the lowest glass mass loss at 60 mg/dm². Accordingly, each of the exemplary glass compositions were classified in at least class A2 of the ISO 695 standard, with exemplary glass compositions A, B, D and F classified in class A1. In general, compositions with higher silica content exhibited lower base resistance and compositions with higher alkali/alkaline earth content exhibited greater base resistance.

Table 8 also shows that the non-ion exchanged test samples of exemplary glass compositions A-F all demonstrated a hydrolytic resistance of at least Type HGA2 following testing according to the ISO 720 standard with exemplary glass compositions C—F having a hydrolytic resistance of Type HGA1. The hydrolytic resistance of exemplary glass compositions C—F is believed to be due to higher amounts of SiO₂ and the lower amounts of Na₂O in the glass compositions relative to exemplary glass compositions A and B.

TABLE 8 Composition and Properties of Exemplary Glass Compositions Composition in mole % A B C D E F SiO₂ 70.8 72.8 74.8 76.8 76.8 77.4 Al₂O₃ 7.5 7 6.5 6 6 7 Na₂O 13.7 12.7 11.7 10.7 11.6 10 K₂O 1 1 1 1 0.1 0.1 MgO 6.3 5.8 5.3 4.8 4.8 4.8 CaO 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 SnO₂ 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 DIN 12116 3.2 2.0 1.7 1.6 1.2 1.7 (mg/dm²) classification S3 S3 S3 S3 S2 S3 ISO 695 60.7 65.4 77.9 71.5 76.5 62.4 (mg/dm²) classification A1 A1 A2 A1 A2 A1 ISO 720 100.7 87.0 54.8 57.5 50.7 37.7 (ug Na₂O/ g glass) classification HGA2 HGA2 HGA1 HGA1 HGA1 HGA1 ISO 720 60.3 51.9 39.0 30.1 32.9 23.3 (with IX) (ug Na₂O/ g glass) classification HGA1 HGA1 HGA1 HGA1 HGA1 HGA1

Example 2

Three exemplary inventive glass compositions (compositions G-I) and three comparative glass compositions (compositions 1-3) were prepared. The ratio of alkali oxides to alumina (i.e., Y:X) was varied in each of the compositions in order to assess the effect of this ratio on various properties of the resultant glass melt and glass. The specific compositions of each of the exemplary inventive glass compositions and the comparative glass compositions are reported in Table 9. The strain point, anneal point, and softening point of melts formed from each of the glass compositions were determined and are reported in Table 2. In addition, the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), density, and stress optic coefficient (SOC) of the resultant glasses were also determined and are reported in Table 9. The hydrolytic resistance of glass samples formed from each exemplary inventive glass composition and each comparative glass composition was determined according to the ISO 720 Standard both before ion exchange and after ion exchange in a molten salt bath of 100% KNO₃ at 450° C. for 5 hours. For those samples that were ion exchanged, the compressive stress was determined with a fundamental stress meter (FSM) instrument, with the compressive stress value based on the measured stress optical coefficient (SOC). The FSM instrument couples light into and out of the birefringent glass surface. The measured birefringence is then related to stress through a material constant, the stress-optic or photoelastic coefficient (SOC or PEC) and two parameters are obtained: the maximum surface compressive stress (CS) and the exchanged depth of layer (DOL). The diffusivity of the alkali ions in the glass and the change in stress per square root of time were also determined.

TABLE 9 Glass properties as a function of alkali to alumina ratio Composition Mole % G H I 1 2 3 SiO₂ 76.965 76.852 76.962 76.919 76.960 77.156 Al₂O₃ 5.943 6.974 7.958 8.950 4.977 3.997 Na₂O 11.427 10.473 9.451 8.468 12.393 13.277 K₂O 0.101 0.100 0.102 0.105 0.100 0.100 MgO 4.842 4.878 4.802 4.836 4.852 4.757 CaO 0.474 0.478 0.481 0.480 0.468 0.462 SnO₂ 0.198 0.195 0.197 0.197 0.196 0.196 Strain (° C.) 578 616 654 683 548 518 Anneal (° C.) 633 674 716 745 600 567 Softening (° C.) 892 946 1003 1042 846 798 Expansion (10⁻⁷ K⁻¹) 67.3 64.3 59.3 55.1 71.8 74.6 Density (g/cm³) 2.388 2.384 2.381 2.382 2.392 2.396 SOC (nm/mm/Mpa) 3.127 3.181 3.195 3.232 3.066 3.038 ISO720 (non-IX) 88.4 60.9 47.3 38.4 117.1 208.1 ISO720 (IX450° C.-5 hr) 25.3 26 20.5 17.8 57.5 102.5 R₂O/Al₂O₃ 1.940 1.516 1.200 0.958 2.510 3.347 CS@t = 0 (MPa) 708 743 738 655 623 502 CS/√t (MPa/hr^(1/2)) −35 −24 −14 −7 −44 −37 D (μm²/hr) 52.0 53.2 50.3 45.1 51.1 52.4

The data in Table 9 indicates that the alkali to alumina ratio Y:X influences the melting behavior, hydrolytic resistance, and the compressive stress obtainable through ion exchange strengthening. In particular, FIG. 1 graphically depicts the strain point, anneal point, and softening point as a function of Y:X ratio for the glass compositions of Table 9. FIG. 1 demonstrates that, as the ratio of Y:X decreases below 0.9, the strain point, anneal point, and softening point of the glass rapidly increase. Accordingly, to obtain a glass which is readily meltable and formable, the ratio Y:X should be greater than or equal to 0.9 or even greater than or equal to 1.

Further, the data in Table 2 indicates that the diffusivity of the glass compositions generally decreases with the ratio of Y:X. Accordingly, to achieve glasses can be rapidly ion exchanged in order to reduce process times (and costs) the ratio of Y:X should be greater than or equal to 0.9 or even greater than or equal to 1.

Moreover, FIG. 2 indicates that for a given ion exchange time and ion exchange temperature, the maximum compressive stresses are obtained when the ratio of Y:X is greater than or equal to about 0.9, or even greater than or equal to about 1, and less than or equal to about 2, specifically greater than or equal to about 1.3 and less than or equal to about 2.0. Accordingly, the maximum improvement in the load bearing strength of the glass can be obtained when the ratio of Y:X is greater than about 1 and less than or equal to about 2. It is generally understood that the maximum stress achievable by ion exchange will decay with increasing ion-exchange duration as indicated by the stress change rate (i.e., the measured compressive stress divided by the square root of the ion exchange time). FIG. 2 generally shows that the stress change rate decreases as the ratio Y:X decreases.

FIG. 3 graphically depicts the hydrolytic resistance (y-axis) as a function of the ratio Y:X (x-axis). As shown in FIG. 3 , the hydrolytic resistance of the glasses generally improves as the ratio Y:X decreases.

Based on the foregoing it should be understood that glasses with good melt behavior, superior ion exchange performance, and superior hydrolytic resistance can be achieved by maintaining the ratio Y:X in the glass from greater than or equal to about 0.9, or even greater than or equal to about 1, and less than or equal to about 2.

Example 3

Three exemplary inventive glass compositions (compositions J-L) and three comparative glass compositions (compositions 4-6) were prepared. The concentration of MgO and CaO in the glass compositions was varied to produce both MgO-rich compositions (i.e., compositions J-L and 4) and CaO-rich compositions (i.e., compositions 5-6). The relative amounts of MgO and CaO were also varied such that the glass compositions had different values for the ratio (CaO/(CaO+MgO)). The specific compositions of each of the exemplary inventive glass compositions and the comparative glass compositions are reported below in Table 10. The properties of each composition were determined as described above with respect to Example 2.

TABLE 10 Glass properties as function of CaO content Composition Mole % J K L 4 5 6 SiO₂ 76.99 77.10 77.10 77.01 76.97 77.12 Al₂O₃ 5.98 5.97 5.96 5.96 5.97 5.98 Na₂O 11.38 11.33 11.37 11.38 11.40 11.34 K₂O 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 MgO 5.23 4.79 3.78 2.83 1.84 0.09 CaO 0.07 0.45 1.45 2.46 3.47 5.12 SnO₂ 0.20 0.19 0.19 0.19 0.19 0.19 Strain (° C.) 585 579 568 562 566 561 Anneal (° C.) 641 634 620 612 611 610 Softening 902 895 872 859 847 834 (° C.) Expansion 67.9 67.1 68.1 68.8 69.4 70.1 (10⁻⁷ K⁻¹) Density 2.384 2.387 2.394 2.402 2.41 2.42 (g/cm³) SOC 3.12 3.08 3.04 3.06 3.04 3.01 nm/mm/Mpa ISO720 83.2 83.9 86 86 88.7 96.9 (non-IX) ISO720 29.1 28.4 33.2 37.3 40.1 (IX450° C.- 5 hr) Fraction of RO 0.014 0.086 0.277 0.465 0.654 0.982 as CaO CS@t = 0 707 717 713 689 693 676 (MPa) CS/√t −36 −37 −39 −38 −43 −44 (MPa/hr^(1/2)) D (μm²/hr) 57.2 50.8 40.2 31.4 26.4 20.7

FIG. 4 graphically depicts the diffusivity D of the compositions listed in Table 10 as a function of the ratio (CaO/(CaO+MgO)). Specifically, FIG. 4 indicates that as the ratio (CaO/(CaO+MgO)) increases, the diffusivity of alkali ions in the resultant glass decreases thereby diminishing the ion exchange performance of the glass. This trend is supported by the data in Table 10 and FIG. 5 . FIG. 5 graphically depicts the maximum compressive stress and stress change rate (y-axes) as a function of the ratio (CaO/(CaO+MgO)). FIG. 5 indicates that as the ratio (CaO/(CaO+MgO)) increases, the maximum obtainable compressive stress decreases for a given ion exchange temperature and ion exchange time. FIG. 5 also indicates that as the ratio (CaO/(CaO+MgO)) increases, the stress change rate increases (i.e., becomes more negative and less desirable).

Accordingly, based on the data in Table 10 and FIGS. 4 and 5 , it should be understood that glasses with higher diffusivities can be produced by minimizing the ratio (CaO/(CaO+MgO)). It has been determined that glasses with suitable diffusivities can be produced when the (CaO/(CaO+MgO)) ratio is less than about 0.5. The diffusivity values of the glass when the (CaO/(CaO+MgO)) ratio is less than about 0.5 decreases the ion exchange process times needed to achieve a given compressive stress and depth of layer. Alternatively, glasses with higher diffusivities due to the ratio (CaO/(CaO+MgO)) may be used to achieve a higher compressive stress and depth of layer for a given ion exchange temperature and ion exchange time.

Moreover, the data in Table 10 also indicates that decreasing the ratio (CaO/(CaO+MgO)) by increasing the MgO concentration generally improves the resistance of the glass to hydrolytic degradation as measured by the ISO 720 standard.

Example 4

Three exemplary inventive glass compositions (compositions M-O) and three comparative glass compositions (compositions 7-9) were prepared. The concentration of B₂O₃ in the glass compositions was varied from 0 mol. % to about 4.6 mol. % such that the resultant glasses had different values for the ratio B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃). The specific compositions of each of the exemplary inventive glass compositions and the comparative glass compositions are reported below in Table 11. The properties of each glass composition were determined as described above with respect to Examples 2 and 3.

TABLE 11 Glass properties as a function of B₂O₃ content Composition Mole % M N O 7 8 9 SiO₂ 76.860 76.778 76.396 74.780 73.843 72.782 Al₂O₃ 5.964 5.948 5.919 5.793 5.720 5.867 B₂O₃ 0.000 0.214 0.777 2.840 4.443 4.636 Na₂O 11.486 11.408 11.294 11.036 10.580 11.099 K₂O 0.101 0.100 0.100 0.098 0.088 0.098 MgO 4.849 4.827 4.801 4.754 4.645 4.817 CaO 0.492 0.480 0.475 0.463 0.453 0.465 SnO₂ 0.197 0.192 0.192 0.188 0.183 0.189 Strain (° C.) 579 575 572 560 552 548 Anneal (° C.) 632 626 622 606 597 590 Softening 889 880 873 836 816 801 (° C.) Expansion 68.3 67.4 67.4 65.8 64.1 67.3 (10⁻⁷ K⁻¹) Density 2.388 2.389 2.390 2.394 2.392 2.403 (g/cm³) SOC 3.13 3.12 3.13 3.17 3.21 3.18 (nm/mm/MPa) ISO720 86.3 78.8 68.5 64.4 52.7 54.1 (non-IX) ISO720 32.2 30.1 26 24.7 22.6 26.7 (IX450° C.- 5 hr) B₂O₃/ 0.000 0.038 0.142 0.532 0.898 0.870 (R₂O—Al₂O₃) CS@t = 0 703 714 722 701 686 734 (MPa) CS/√t −38 −38 −38 −33 −32 −39 (MPa/hr^(1/2)) D (μm²/hr) 51.7 43.8 38.6 22.9 16.6 15.6

FIG. 6 graphically depicts the diffusivity D (y-axis) of the glass compositions in Table 11 as a function of the ratio B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃) (x-axis) for the glass compositions of Table 11. As shown in FIG. 6 , the diffusivity of alkali ions in the glass generally decreases as the ratio B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃) increases.

FIG. 7 graphically depicts the hydrolytic resistance according to the ISO 720 standard (y-axis) as a function of the ratio B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃) (x-axis) for the glass compositions of Table 11. As shown in FIG. 6 , the hydrolytic resistance of the glass compositions generally improves as the ratio B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃) increases.

Based on FIGS. 6 and 7 , it should be understood that minimizing the ratio B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃) improves the diffusivity of alkali ions in the glass thereby improving the ion exchange characteristics of the glass. Further, increasing the ratio B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃) also generally improves the resistance of the glass to hydrolytic degradation. In addition, it has been found that the resistance of the glass to degradation in acidic solutions (as measured by the DIN 12116 standard) generally improves with decreasing concentrations of B₂O₃. Accordingly, it has been determined that maintaining the ratio B₂O₃/(R₂O—Al₂O₃) to less than or equal to about 0.3 provides the glass with improved hydrolytic and acid resistances as well as providing for improved ion exchange characteristics.

It should now be understood that the glass compositions described herein exhibit chemical durability as well as mechanical durability following ion exchange. These properties make the glass compositions well suited for use in various applications including, without limitation, pharmaceutical packaging materials.

Example 5 Determining the Presence and Amount of Glass Flakes in Pharmaceutical Solutions

The resistance to delamination may be characterized by the number of glass particulates present in a pharmaceutical solution contained within a glass container described herein after. In order to assess the long-term resistance of the glass container to delamination, an accelerated delamination test is utilized. The test consists of washing the glass container at room temperature for 1 minute and depyrogenating the container at about 320° C. for 1 hour. Thereafter a pharmaceutical solution is placed in the glass container to 80-90% full, the glass container is closed, and rapidly heated to, for example, 100° C. and then heated from 100° C. to 121° C. at a ramp rate of 1 deg/min at a pressure of 2 atmospheres. The glass container and solution are held at this temperature for 60 minutes, cooled to room temperature at a rate of 0.5 deg./min and the heating cycle and hold are repeated. The glass container is then heated to 50° C. and held for two days for elevated temperature conditioning. After heating, the glass container is dropped from a distance of at least 18″ onto a firm surface, such as a laminated tile floor, to dislodge any flakes or particles that are weakly adhered to the inner surface of the glass container.

Thereafter, the pharmaceutical solution contained in the glass container is analyzed to determine the number of glass particles present per liter of solution. Specifically, the solution from the glass container is directly poured onto the center of a Millipore Isopore Membrane filter (Millipore #ATTP02500 held in an assembly with parts #AP1002500 and #M000025A0) attached to vacuum suction to draw the solution through the filter within 10-15 seconds. Particulate flakes are then counted by differential interference contrast microscopy (DIC) in the reflection mode as described in “Differential interference contrast (DIC) microscopy and modulation contrast microscopy” from Fundamentals of light microscopy and digital imaging. New York: Wiley-Liss, pp 153-168. The field of view is set to approximately 1.5 mm×1.5 mm and particles larger than 50 microns are counted manually. There are 9 such measurements made in the center of each filter membrane in a 3×3 pattern with no overlap between images. A minimum of 100 mL of solution is tested. As such, the solution from a plurality of small containers may be pooled to bring the total amount of solution to 100 mL. If the containers contain more than 10 mL of solution, the entire amount of solution from the container is examined for the presence of particles. For containers having a volume greater than 10 mL containers, the test is repeated for a trial of 10 containers formed from the same glass composition under the same processing conditions and the result of the particle count is averaged for the 10 containers to determine an average particle count. Alternatively, in the case of small containers, the test is repeated for a trial of 10 sets of 10 mL of solution, each of which is analyzed and the particle count averaged over the 10 sets to determine an average particle count. Averaging the particle count over multiple containers accounts for potential variations in the delamination behavior of individual containers.

It should be understood that the aforementioned test is used to identify particles which are shed from the interior wall(s) of the glass container due to delamination and not tramp particles present in the container from forming processes. Specifically, delamination particles will be differentiated from tramp glass particles based on the aspect ratio of the particle (i.e., the ratio of the width of the particle to the thickness of the particle). Delamination produces particulate flakes or lamellae which are irregularly shaped and are typically >50 μm in diameter but often >200 μm. The thickness of the flakes is usually greater than about 100 nm and may be as large as about 1 μm. Thus, the minimum aspect ratio of the flakes is typically >50. The aspect ratio may be greater than 100 and sometimes greater than 1000. Particles resulting from delamination processes generally have an aspect ratio which is generally greater than about 50. In contrast, tramp glass particles will generally have a low aspect ratio which is less than about 3. Accordingly, particles resulting from delamination may be differentiated from tramp particles based on aspect ratio during observation with the microscope. Validation results can be accomplished by evaluating the heel region of the tested containers. Upon observation, evidence of skin corrosion/pitting/flake removal, as described in “Nondestructive Detection of Glass Vial Inner Surface Morphology with Differential Interference Contrast Microscopy” from Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences 101(4), 2012, pages 1378-1384, is noted.

Using this method, pharmaceutical compositions can be tested for the presence of glass flakes and various compositions can be compared to each other to assess the safety of various pharmaceutical compositions.

Example 6 Stability Testing of Pharmaceutical Compositions

Stability studies are part of the testing required by the FDA and other regulatory agencies. Stability studies should include testing of those attributes of the API that are susceptible to change during storage and are likely to influence quality, safety, and/or efficacy. The testing should cover, as appropriate, the physical, chemical, biological, and microbiological attributes of the API (e.g., small molecule or biologic therapeutic agent) in the container with the closure to be used for storage of the agent. If the API is formulated as a liquid by the manufacturer, the final formulation should be assayed for stability. If the API is formulated as an agent for reconstitution by the end user using a solution provided by the manufacturer, both the API and the solution for reconstitution are preferably tested for stability as the separate packaged components (e.g., the API subjected to storage reconstituted with solution for reconstitution not subject to storage, API not subject to storage reconstituted with a solution subject to storage, and both API and solution subject to storage). This is particularly the case when the solution for reconstitution includes an active agent (e.g., an adjuvant for reconstitution of a vaccine).

In general, a substance API should be evaluated under storage conditions (with appropriate tolerances) that test its thermal stability and, if applicable, its sensitivity to moisture. The storage conditions and the lengths of studies chosen should be sufficient to cover storage, shipment, and subsequent use.

API should be stored in the container(s) in which the API will be provided to the end user (e.g., vials, ampules, syringes, injectable devices). Stability testing methods provided herein refer to samples being removed from the storage or stress conditions indicated. Removal of a sample preferably refers to removing an entire container from the storage or stress conditions. Removal of a sample should not be understood as withdrawing a portion of the API from the container as removal of a portion of the API from the container would result in changes of fill volume, gas environment, etc. At the time of testing the API subject to stability and/or stress testing, portions of the samples subject to stability and/or stress testing can be used for individual assays.

The long-term testing should cover a minimum of 12 months' duration on at least three primary batches at the time of submission and should be continued for a period of time sufficient to cover the proposed retest period. Additional data accumulated during the assessment period of the registration application should be submitted to the authorities if requested. Data from the accelerated storage condition and, if appropriate, from the intermediate storage condition can be used to evaluate the effect of short-term excursions outside the label storage conditions (such as might occur during shipping).

Long-term, accelerated, and, where appropriate, intermediate storage conditions for API are detailed in the sections below. The general case should apply if the API is not specifically covered by a subsequent section. It is understood that the time points for analysis indicated in the table are suggested end points for analysis. Interim analysis can be preformed at shorter time points (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or 11 months). For API to be labeled as stable for storage for more than 12 months, time points beyond 12 months can be assessed (e.g., 15, 18, 21, 24 months). Alternative storage conditions can be used if justified.

TABLE 12 General Conditions for Stability Analysis Time Study Storage condition points for analysis Long-term Long-term* 25° C. ± 2° C./60% 12 months  RH ± 5% RH or 30° C. ± 2° C./65% RH ± 5% RH Intermediate 30° C. ± 2° C./65% RH ± 5% RH 6 months Accelerated 40° C. ± 2° C./75% RH ± 5% RH 6 months

TABLE 13 Conditions for Stability Analysis for Storage in a Refrigerator Minimum time period covered by Study Storage condition data at submission Long-term  5° C. ± 3° C. 12 months Accelerated 25° C. ± 2° C./60% RH ± 5% RH  6 months

TABLE 14 Conditions for Stability Analysis for Storage in a Freezer Minimum time period covered by data at Study Storage condition submission Long-term −20° C. ± 5° C. 12 months

Storage condition for API intended to be stored in a freezer, testing on a single batch at an elevated temperature (e.g., 5° C.±3° C. or 25° C.±2° C.) for an appropriate time period should be conducted to address the effect of short-term excursions outside the proposed label storage condition (e.g., stress during shipping or handling, e.g., increased temperature, multiple freeze-thaw cycles, storage in a non-upright orientation, shaking, etc.).

The assays performed to assess stability of an API include assays to that are used across most APIs to assess the physical properties of the API, e.g., degradation, pH, color, particulate formation, concentration, toxicity, etc. Assays to detect the general properties of the API are also selected based on the chemical class of the agent, e.g., denaturation and aggregation of protein based API. Assays to detect the potency of the API, i.e., the ability of the API to achieve its intended effect as demonstrated by the quantitative measurement of an attribute indicative of the clinical effect as compared to an appropriate control, are selected based on the activity of the particular agent. For example, the biological activity of the API, e.g., enzyme inhibitor activity, cell killing activity, anti-inflammatory activity, coagulation modulating activity, etc., is measured using in vitro and/or in vivo assays such as those provided herein. Pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties of the API are also assessed using methods known in the art, such as those provided herein.

Example 7 Analysis of Adherence to Glass Vials

Changes in the surface of glass can result in changes in the adherence of API to glass. The amount of agent in samples withdrawn from glass vials are tested at intervals to determine if the concentration of the API in solution changes over time. API are incubated in containers as described in the stability testing and/or stress testing methods provided in Example 6. Preferably, the API is incubated both in standard glass vials with appropriate closures and glass vials such as those provided herein. At the desired intervals, samples are removed and assayed to determine the concentration of the API in solution. The concentration of the API is determined using methods and controls appropriate to the API. The concentration of the API is preferably determined in conjunction with at least one assay to confirm that the API, rather than degradation products of the API, is detected. In the case of biologics in which the conformational structure of the biologic agent is essential to its function of the API, the assays for concentration of the biologic are preferably preformed in conjunction with an assay to confirm the structure of the biologic (e.g., activity assay).

For example, in the cases of small molecule APIs, the amount of agent present is determined, for example, by mass spectrometry, optionally in combination with liquid chromatography, as appropriate, to separate the agent from any degradation products that may be present in the sample.

For protein based biologic APIs, the concentration of the API is determined, for example, using ELISA assay. Chromatography methods are used in conjunction with methods to determine protein concentration to confirm that protein fragments or aggregates are not being detected by the ELISA assay.

For nucleic acid biologic APIs, the concentration of the API is determined, for example, using quantitative PCR when the nucleic acids are of sufficient length to permit detection by such methods. Chromatography methods are used to determine both the concentration and size of nucleic acid based API.

For viral vaccine APIs, the concentration of the virus is determined, for example, using colony formation assays.

Example 8 Analysis of Pharmacokinetic Properties

Pharmacokinetics is concerned with the analysis of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of API. Storage and stress can potentially affect the pharmacokinetic properties of various API. To assess pharmacokinetics of API subject to stability and/or stress testing, agents are incubated in containers as described in Example 6. Preferably, the API are incubated both in standard glass vials with appropriate closures and glass vials such as those provided herein. At the desired intervals, samples are removed and assayed.

The API is delivered to subjects by the typical route of delivery for the API (e.g., injection, oral, topical). As pharmacokinetics are concerned with the absorption and elimination of the API, normal subjects are typically used to assess pharmacokinetic properties of the API. However, if the API is to be used in subjects with compromised ability to absorb or eliminate the API (e.g., subjects with liver or kidney disease), testing in an appropriate disease model may be advantageous. Depending on the half life of the compound, samples (e.g., blood, urine, stool) are collected at predetermined time points (e.g., 0 min, 30 min, 60 min, 90 min, 120 min, 4 hours, 6 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, 36 hours, 48 hours, etc.) for at least two, preferably three half-lives of the API, and analyzed for the presence of the API and metabolic products of the API. At the end of the study, organs are harvested and analyzed for the presence of the API and metabolic products of the API.

The results are analyzed using an appropriate model selected based on, at least, the route of administration of the API. The pharmacokinetic properties of the API subjected to stability and/or stress testing are compared to API not subjected to stability or stress testing and other appropriate controls (e.g., vehicle control). Changes, if any, in pharmacokinetic properties as a result of storage of the API under each condition are determined.

Example 9 Analysis of Toxicity Profiles

Storage of API can result in alterations of toxicity of API as a result of reactivity of the API with the container, leeching of agents from the container, delamination resulting in particulates in the agent, reaction of the API molecules with each other or components of the storage buffer, or other causes.

Agents are incubated in containers as described in the stability testing and/or stress testing methods provided in Example 6. Preferably, the API is incubated both in standard glass vials with appropriate closures and glass vials such as those provided herein. At the desired intervals, samples are removed and assayed to determine the toxicity the API. The toxicity of the API is determined using methods and controls appropriate to the API. In vitro and in vivo testing can be used alone or in combination to assess changes in toxicity of agents as a result of storage or stress.

In in vitro assays, cell lines are grown in culture and contacted with increasing concentrations of API subjected to stability and/or stress testing for predetermined amounts of time (e.g., 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 hours). Cell viability is assessed using any of a number of routine or commercially available assays. Cells are observed, for example, by microscopy or using fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis using commercially available reagents and kits. For example, membrane-permeant calcein AM is cleaved by esterases in live cells to yield cytoplasmic green fluorescence, and membrane-impermeant ethidium homodimer-1 labels nucleic acids of membrane-compromised cells with red fluorescence. Membrane-permeant SYTO 10 dye labels the nucleic acids of live cells with green fluorescence, and membrane-impermeant DEAD Red dye labels nucleic acids of membrane-compromised cells with red fluorescence. A change in the level of cell viability is detected between the cells contacted with API subjected to stress and/or stability testing in standard glass vials as compared to the glass vials provided herein and appropriate controls (e.g., API not subject to stability testing, vehicle control).

In vivo toxicity assays are performed in animals. Typically preliminary assays are performed on normal subjects. However, if the disease or condition to be treated could alter the susceptibility of the subject to toxic agents (e.g., decreased liver function, decreased kidney function), toxicity testing in an appropriate model of the disease or condition can be advantageous. One or more doses of agents subjected to stability and/or stress testing are administered to animals. Typically, doses are far higher (e.g., 5 times, 10 times) the dose that would be used therapeutically and are selected, at least in part, on the toxicity of the API not subject to stability and/or stress testing. However, for the purpose of assaying stability of API, the agent can be administered at a single dose that is close to (e.g., 70%-90%), but not at, a dose that would be toxic for the API not subject to stability or stress testing. In single dose studies, after administration of the API subject to stress and/or stability testing (e.g., 12 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours), during which time blood, urine, and stool samples may be collected. In long term studies, animals are administered a lower dose, closer to the dose used for therapeutic treatment, and are observed for changes indicating toxicity, e.g., weight loss, loss of appetite, physical changes, or death. In both short and long term studies, organs are harvested and analyzed to determine if the API is toxic. Organs of most interest are those involved in clearance of the API, e.g., liver and kidneys, and those for which toxicity would be most catastrophic, e.g., heart, brain. An analysis is performed to detect a change in toxicity between the API subjected to stress and/or stability testing in standard glass vials as compared to the glass vials provided herein, as compared to API not subject to stability and/or stress testing and vehicle control. Changes, if any, in toxicity properties as a result of storage of the API under each condition are determined.

Example 10 Analysis of Pharmacodynamic Profiles

Pharmacodynamics includes the study of the biochemical and physiological effects of drugs on the body or on microorganisms or parasites within or on the body and the mechanisms of drug action and the relationship between drug concentration and effect. Mouse models for a large variety of disease states are known and commercially available (see, e.g., jaxmice.jax.org/query/f?p=205:1:989373419139701::::P1_ADV:1). A number of induced models of disease are also known.

Agents are incubated in containers as described in the stability testing and/or stress testing methods provided in Example 6. Preferably, the samples are incubated both in standard glass vials with appropriate closures and glass vials such as those provided herein. At the desired intervals, samples are removed and assayed for pharmacodynamic activity using known animal models. Exemplary mouse models for testing the various classes of agents indicated are known in the art.

The mouse is treated with the API subject to stability and/or stress testing. The efficacy of the API subject to stability and/or stress testing to treat the appropriate disease or condition is assayed as compared to API not subject to stability and/or stress testing and vehicle control. Changes, if any, in pharmacodynamic properties as a result of storage of the API under each condition are determined.

Example 11 Determination of Immunological Activity of RITUXAN® (Rituximab)

RITUXAN® samples will be incubated in containers as described in the stability testing and/or stress testing methods provided in Example 6. Preferably, the samples will be incubated both in standard glass vials with appropriate closures and glass vials such as those provided herein. At the desired intervals, samples will be removed and assayed in vitro or in vivo assay to assess the activity of RITUXAN®. The activity will be determined using methods and controls appropriate to the agent.

Human C1q Analysis

Binding to human C1q is assessed in a flow cytometry assay using fluorescein labeled C1q (C1q was obtained from Quidel, Mira Mesa, Calif., Prod. No. A400 and FITC label from Sigma, St. Louis Mo., Prod. No. F-7250; FITC. Labeling of C1q is accomplished in accordance with the protocol described in Selected Methods In Cellular Immunology, Michell & Shiigi, Ed. (W.H. Freeman & Co., San Francisco, Calif., 1980, p. 292). Analytical results are derived using a Becton Dickinson FACScan™ flow cytometer (fluorescein measured over a range of 515-545 nm). Equivalent amounts of RITUXAN, human IgG1 nadK myeloma protein (Binding Site, San Diego, Calif., Prod. No. BP078) are incubated with an equivalent number of CD20-positive SB cells, followed by a wash step with FACS buffer (0.2% BSA in PBS, pH 7.4, 0.02% sodium azide) to remove unattached antibody, followed by incubation with FITC labeled C1q. Following a 30-60 min incubation, cells are again washed. The three conditions, including FITC-labeled C1q as a control, are analyzed on the FACScan™ following manufacturing instructions.

Complement Dependent Cell Lyses

RITUXAN® is analyzed for its ability to lyse lymphoma cell lines in the presence of human serum (complement source). CD20 positive SB cells are labeled with ⁵¹Cr by admixing 100 μCi of ⁵¹Cr with 1×10⁶ SB cells for 1 hr at 37° C.; labeled SB cells are then incubated in the presence of equivalent amounts of human complement and equivalent amounts (0-50 μg/ml) of RITUXAN® for 4 hrs at 37° C. (see, Brunner, K. T. et al., “Quantitative assay of the lytic action of immune lymphoid cells on ⁵¹Cr-labeled allogeneic target cells in vitro.” Immunology 14:181-189 (1968).

Antibody Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity Effector Assay

For this study, CD20 positive cells (SB) and CD20 negative cells (T cell leukemia line HSB; see, Adams, Richard, “Formal Discussion,” Can. Res. 27:2479-2482 (1967); ATCC deposit no. ATCC CCL 120.1) are utilized; both are labeled with ⁵¹Cr. Analysis is conducted following the protocol described in Brunner, K. T. et al., “Quantitative assay of the lytic action of immune lymphoid cells on ⁵¹Cr-labeled allogeneic target cells in vitro; inhibition by isoantibody and drugs.” Immunology 14:181-189 (1968). Chimeric anti-CD20 antibody dependent cell mediated lysis of CD20 positive SB target cells (⁵¹Cr Cr-labeled) at the end of a 4 hr, 37° C. incubation, is assessed (effector cells were human peripheral lymphocytes; ratio of effector cells:target was 100:1).

Example 12 Assessing Levels of Rituximab in Sera and Plasma

RITUXAN® samples will be incubated in containers as described in the stability testing and/or stress testing methods provided in Example 6. Preferably, the samples will be incubated both in standard glass vials with appropriate closures and glass vials such as those provided herein. At the desired intervals, samples will be removed and assayed in vitro or in vivo assay to assess the activity of RITUXAN®. The activity will be determined using methods and controls appropriate to the agent.

Materials

Materials can be obtained as described in Beum et al. (J. Immun. Meth. (2004) 289:97-109)

Preparation of RITUXAN® Standards

RITUXAN® standards are prepared by serial dilution of a commercial 10 mg/ml RITUXAN® sample in normal human plasma (NHP).

Raji Cell-Based Flow Cytometry Procedure

All incubations with Raji cells (or anti-mouse IgG beads, see below) are conducted in 12×75 mm polystyrene tubes (Becton Dickinson (BD) Pharmingen, San Diego, Calif.). After the incubations, cells or beads are washed twice by addition of 4 ml of PBS followed by centrifugation at 1260×g for 2 min in a swinging bucket centrifuge, followed by aspiration and reconstitution in appropriate media. All assays with both unknowns and standards are conducted in at least duplicate.

In a typical assay, the RITUXAN® standards as well as the sera or EDTA-anti-coagulated patient plasmas are diluted 400-fold in BSA/PBS (1% bovine serum albumin in PBS). Raji cells with at least 90% viability are washed and resuspended in BSA/PBS to 3×10⁶ cells/ml. Then, 100 μl of the cellular suspension is mixed with 50 μl of the diluted standards and samples, gently vortexed and incubated at room temperature (RT) for 30 min with mild shaking. The cells are washed twice and set to a volume of 200 μl, and then 50 μl of 10 mg/ml mouse IgG was added (to minimize nonspecific binding), followed by 25 μl of 0.1 mg/ml A1488 or A1633 mAb HB43. The tubes are gently vortexed, covered, and incubated at RT for 30 min with mild shaking. The cells are washed twice and then set to a volume of 100 μl, and then 150 μl of 1% paraformaldehyde in PBS is added to fix the cells. Samples are analyzed by flow cytometry on a BD FACScalibur flow cytometer, counting 10,000 events per sample. Mean values of fluorescence intensity are converted to values of molecules of equivalent soluble fluorochrome (MESF) by use of fluorescent FACS calibration beads from Spherotech (PN RCP-30-5A).

Goat Anti-Mouse IgG Polystyrene Bead Based Flow Cytometry Assay Procedure

This assay is performed in a similar manner to the Raji cell assay. The Spherotech goat anti-mouse IgG beads, which are packaged as a slurry containing approximately 3×107 beads/ml, were diluted 10-fold into BSA/PBS, and then 100 μl of the suspension are mixed with 50 μl of a 3000-fold dilution (in BSA/PBS) of each of the RITUXAN® standards and unknowns. The samples are processed as described for Raji cells, except after the second wash following the first incubation, the volume is set to 200 μl, and then 10 μl of a 20-fold dilution of Caltag FITC goat anti-human IgG (Fc-specific) is added, yielding a final concentration of 2 μg/ml. After a 30-min incubation at RT, the samples are washed twice, set to a volume of 250 Al, and analyzed by flow cytometry as described above.

ELISA Assay Procedure

ELISA plates are prepared as follows: rabbit antimouse IgG, F(abV)₂-specific, is diluted in 0.05 M carbonate-bicarbonate buffer, pH 9.6, to a final concentration of 3 Ag/ml, and 100 μl of the antibody solution is added to each well of a 96-well Falcon Pro-bind flat bottom polystyrene plate (PN 353915, BD, Franklin Lakes, N.J.), or of a Corning plate (PN 25880-96, Corning, N.Y.), and the plate is wrapped in aluminum foil and held at 4° C. overnight. The plate is then washed five times with PBST (PBS+0.1% Tween-20) in a Titertek M96 96-well programmable (P. V. Beum et al./Journal of Immunological Methods 289 (2004) 97-109) 99 plate washer and covered with adhesive plastic, wrapped in aluminum foil and stored at 4° C. until use. To perform the assay, 100 μl of a 4000- or 8000-fold dilution (in BSA/PBS) of each of the RTX standards and unknowns are added to each well of the ELISA plate. The plate is sealed with adhesive plastic and incubated at 37° C. for 60 min, and then washed five times with PBST. Then 100 μl of HRPconjugated goat anti-mouse IgG, F(abV)₂ specific, diluted 3000-fold in BSA/PBST, is added to each well, the plate is incubated at 37° C. for 60 min, and again washed five times with PBST. Then, 100 μl of SigmaFast o-phenylenediamine developing reagent (PN P-9187, Sigma, St. Louis, Mo.) is added to each well and the plate is incubated in the dark at RT until the appropriate level of color had developed, usually 10-20 min. The reaction is stopped by addition of 50 μl 1 M H2SO4, and the optical density of the wells is read in a Titertek Multiscan Plus MkII 96-well plate reader at 492 nm.

Tests for Free and Inhibitory CD20 in Neat Plasmas

Raji cells (5×106 cells/ml) are incubated for 30 min at RT with A1488 RITUXAN (10 μg/ml) in the presence of media, or neat NHP or CLL patient plasmas. The samples are then washed three times, fixed, and evaluated for the amount of bound A1488 RITUXAN using flow cytometry.

Tests for Free and Inhibitory CD20 in Raji Cell Lysates

Raji cells (5×106 cells/ml) are incubated for 30 min at RT with A1488 RITUXAN® (10 μg/ml) in the presence of media, or neat NHP or CLL patient plasmas. The samples are then washed three times, fixed, and evaluated for the amount of bound A1488 RITUXAN® using flow cytometry. Raji cells (1×108 cells) are pelleted and then lysed by the addition of 0.5 ml of lysis buffer which contained 0.5% Triton X-100 in 0.14 M NaCl, 0.01 M Tris-HCl, 0.025% sodium azide, and 50 μl of a protease inhibitor cocktail (Sigma, PN 2714). The sample is held at RT for 30 min and then centrifuged at 12,000×g for 2 min. The supernatant was isolated and aliquots were spiked with RITUXAN® (final concentration of either 5 or 15 Ag/ml) and then tested in the three assays. Due to the high sample dilution (400-fold) used in the Raji cell assay, lysis of the indicator Raji cells by detergent was prevented. As a control, lysis buffer which was not added to Raji cells was spiked with RITUXAN® and tested in the three assays under comparable conditions.

Data Analysis

MESF values obtained from the Raji assay and the goat anti-mouse IgG bead assay for the standards were plotted against RITUXAN® concentration to construct the calibration curve. The data was fit to a sigmoidal four parameter equation using SigmaPlot (Version 8.0, SPSS, Chicago, Ill.), and the equation generated from the curve fit was used to calculate unknown sample concentrations from their respective MESF values using SigmaPlot. For the ELISA, the same procedure was followed, except OD492 values were used instead of MESF values. Averages and standard deviations for the data were calculated using Microsoft Excel, and two-tailed p values were calculated using the t-test function in Excel or Sigmastat. Analysis of flow cytometry data was accomplished by using CellQuest software (BD).

Example 13 VEGF Inhibitor Assays to Confirm Activity of Avastin® and Lucentis®

AVASTIN® and LUCENTIS® samples will be incubated in containers as described in the stability testing and/or stress testing methods provided in Example 6. Preferably, the samples will be incubated both in standard glass vials with appropriate closures and glass vials such as those provided herein. At the desired intervals, samples will be removed and assayed in vitro or in vivo assay to assess the activity of AVASTIN® and LUCENTIS®. The activity will be determined using methods and controls appropriate to the agent.

Growth Factors and Inhibitors

Recombinant human VEGF165 (VEGF) is obtained from Genentech. Basic (b) FGF can be purchased from R&D Systems. Flt(1-3)-IgG is cloned and expressed as reported in Davis-Smyth et al. (EMBO J. 15 (1996) 4919-4927) and Ferrara et al. (Nat. Med.) 4 (1998) 336-340). VEGF-TrapR1R2 (J. Holash et al. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 99 (2002): 11393-11398) expression construct is generated using splicing by overlap extension (SOE) PCR (R. M. Horton et al. Gene 77 (1989) 61-68). The first round of PCR is performed to generate four fragments from the appropriate templates: human VEGFR1 signal sequence, VEGFR1-Ig Domain 2, VEGFR2-Ig domain 3 and human FC-DC1A, using primers that contained overlapping sequences with the adjacent segments. The second round of PCR is conducted by using the four PCR fragments as templates and the flanking primers hVEGFR1-Sig-F and hFC-DC1A-R to generate a 1377 bp full length of VEGF-TrapR1R2 DNA. Finally, VEGF-TrapR1R2PCR product is cloned into pRK expression vector. The authenticity of the clone is verified by sequencing. The recombinant protein is purified from supernatants of transfected cells. The sequences of primers are as follows: hVEGFR1-signal-sequence-(F)orward 50-TCATCGATTGGTACCATGGTCAGCTACTGGGACAC, (R)everse 50-TCTACCTGTATCACTACCTGAACTAGATCCTGTGA; hVEGFR1-Ig domain 2-(F)orward 50-AGGATCTAGTTCAGGTAGTGATACAGGTAGACCTTTC, (R)everse 50-ACGGACTCAGAACCACATCTATGATTGTATTGGTT; hVEGFR2-Ig domain 3-(F)orward 50-AATACAATCATAGATGTGGTTCTGAGTCCGTCTCA, (R)everse 50-TGTGTGAGTTTTGTCTTTTTCATGGACCCTGACAA; hFC-DC1A-(F)orward 50-AGGGTCCATGAAAAAGACAAAACTCACACATGCCCA, (R)everse 50-GTCGACTCATTTACCCGGAGACAGGGA.

BREC Proliferation Assay

Bovine retinal microvascular endothelial cell (BREC) proliferation assays are performed as described before (Yu et al., Invest. Ophthalmol. Vis. Sci. 49 (2008) 522-527). Briefly, cells are seeded in 96-well plates in growth medium (low glucose DMEM supplemented with 10% calf serum, 2 mM glutamine, and antibiotics) at a density of 500 cells per well. For inhibition assays, VEGF inhibitors are first added at the indicated concentrations to triplicate wells. Thirty min later, VEGF is added to a final concentration of 6 ng/ml (0.15 nM). After 6-7 days, cells are incubated with alamarBlue (BioSource) for 4 h. Fluorescence is measured at 530 nm excitation wavelength and 590 nm emission wavelength. IC50 values are calculated using KaleidaGraph.

Cell Culture and Western Blot

HUVEC cells are maintained in EGM-2 endothelial cell growth media (Lonza). For MAPK assays, cells are cultured in six-well plates to reach 80% confluency. The medium is then changed to medium 199 (Mediatech) supplemented with 0.1% BSA for 90 min. Inhibitors at various concentrations are pre-incubated with 50 ng/ml (1.25 nM) VEGF in medium 199 containing 0.1% BSA at room temperature for 5 min, 30 min or overnight to ensure that equilibrium is reached. Thereafter, the mixtures are added to the cells for stimulation at 37° C. for 5 min. Cells are then lysed in 0.3 ml of lysis buffer, consisting RIPA buffer (150 mM NaCl, 1% NP-40, 0.5% sodium deoxycholate, 0.1% SDS, 50 mM Tris pH 8.0) plus protease inhibitors (Roche), phosphatase inhibitor cocktails (Sigma) and 1 mM Na3VO4. Cell lysates are loaded on a 4-12% Bis-Tris Criterion XT Precast gel (Bio-Rad). After completion of electrophoresis, transfer is performed by iblot (Invitrogen) for 10 min The nitrocellulose membranes are incubated overnight with phospho-p44/42 MAPK (E10) mouse antibody (Cell Signaling) at a dilution of 1:2000 in 5% BSA in PBST (PBS with 0.1% Tween 20). After three washes in PBST, the blots are incubated with HRP conjugated goat anti-mouse IgG (Thermo Scientific) for 1 h at a dilution of 1:8000 and are then developed using Enhanced Chemiluminescence Plus Western blotting detection system (GE Healthcare Bio-Sciences). To re-probe the membranes with total p44/42 MAPK antibody, the blots are stripped using Restore PLUS Western Blot Stripping buffer (Thermo Scientific), and then incubated with anti-p44/42 MAPK antibody (Cell Signaling) according to manufacturer's instructions.

HUVEC Migration Assay

Modified Boyden chamber migration assays are performed to analyze HUVEC migration using the HTS 24-well insert system (BD Falcon). 5000 HUVECs in 0.1% BSA in EBM-2 (Lonza) are added to the 1 ug/ml fibronectin-coated upper chamber, whereas 0 or 20 ng/ml (0.5 nM) VEGF is added to the fibronectin-coated lower chamber in the presence or absence of the VEGF inhibitors at the indicated concentration. The plates are incubated at 37° C. to allow migration. After 4 h, cells are fixed with 100% ethanol for 10 min and then stained with hematoxylin overnight at 4° C. After scraping off the cells on the top of the insert membrane, the numbers of migrated cells on the bottom side of the insert membrane are quantified by counting three randomly chosen fields at 100× magnification. Each determination represents the mean of three individual wells.

Statistical Analysis

One-way ANOVA is used for means comparisons. The statistical significance is further confirmed using Tukey-Kramer HSD test. P<0.05 is considered statistically significant.

Example 14 Assessing Stability and Efficacy of Herceptin®

HERCEPTIN® samples will be incubated in containers as described in the stability testing and/or stress testing methods provided in Example 6. Preferably, the samples will be incubated both in standard glass vials with appropriate closures and glass vials such as those provided herein. At the desired intervals, samples will be removed and assayed in vitro or in vivo assay to assess the activity of HERCEPTIN®. The activity will be determined using methods and controls appropriate to the agent.

The SKBR-3 cells expressing the Her2 receptor are cultured under conditions to permit the HER2/neu receptor expression. A dilution series of trastuzumab subjected to stability and/or stress testing is prepared and added to the cells to bind to the HER2/neu receptor. Perpheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are then added to the cells to bind to trastuzumab to promote apoptosis. Live/dead cell assays or apoptotic assays are used with immunofluorescence or FACS analysis to determine the activity of trastuzumab in promoting apoptosis.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Thus it is intended that the specification cover the modifications and variations of the various embodiments described herein provided such modification and variations come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A delamination resistant pharmaceutical container comprising a pharmaceutical composition stored within the container, wherein the pharmaceutical container comprises a glass composition comprising: SiO₂ in a concentration greater than 74 mol. %; ZrO₂ in a concentration less than 1 mol. %; alkaline earth oxide comprising MgO and CaO, wherein CaO is present in an amount greater than or equal to 0.1 mol. % and less than or equal to 1.0 mol. % relative to the glass composition, and a ratio (CaO (mol. %)/(CaO (mol. %)+MgO (mol. %))) is less than or equal to 0.5; and Y mol. % alkali oxide, wherein the alkali oxide comprises Na₂O in an amount greater than 8 mol. %, wherein the glass composition is free of boron and compounds of boron, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises one of rituximab, bevacizumab, ranibizumab, trastuzumab, an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds CD20, an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds vascular endothelial growth factor-A, or an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds HER2.
 2. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises a citrate or phosphate buffer.
 3. The pharmaceutical container of claim 2, wherein the buffer is selected from the group consisting of sodium citrate, SSC, monosodium phosphate and disodium phosphate.
 4. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is a solution having a pH between 7 and
 11. 5. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds CD20.
 6. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises rituximab.
 7. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
 8. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises bevacizumab.
 9. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds vascular endothelial growth factor-A.
 10. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises ranibizumab.
 11. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds HER2.
 12. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises trastuzumab.
 13. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, wherein the concentration of SiO₂ is less than or equal to 80 mol. %.
 14. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, wherein the glass composition is free from phosphorous and compounds of phosphorous.
 15. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, further comprising X mol. % Al₂O₃, wherein a ratio of Y:X is greater than
 1. 16. The pharmaceutical container of claim 15, wherein the ratio of Y:X is less than or equal to
 2. 17. The pharmaceutical container of claim 15, wherein X is greater than or equal to 2 mol. % and less than or equal to 10 mol. %.
 18. The pharmaceutical container of claim 15, wherein the alkaline earth oxide is present in an amount from 3 mol. % to 13 mol. %.
 19. The pharmaceutical container of claim 15, wherein the ratio of Y:X is greater than or equal 1.3 and less than or equal to
 2. 20. The pharmaceutical container of claim 15, wherein X is greater than or equal to 5 mol. % and less than or equal to 7 mol. %.
 21. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, wherein the ratio (CaO (mol. %)/(CaO (mol. %)+MgO (mol. %))) is less than or equal to 0.3.
 22. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, further comprising SnO₂.
 23. The pharmaceutical container of claim 1, wherein the the pharmaceutical container is free of ZrO₂.
 24. A delamination resistant pharmaceutical container comprising a pharmaceutical composition stored within the container, wherein the pharmaceutical container comprises a glass composition comprising: from 74 mol. % to 78 mol. % SiO₂; less than 1 mol. % ZrO₂; from 4 mol. % to 8 mol. % alkaline earth oxide, wherein the alkaline earth oxide comprises both MgO and CaO and a ratio (CaO (mol. %)/(CaO (mol. %)+MgO (mol. %))) is less than or equal to 0.5; X mol. % Al₂O₃, wherein X is greater than or equal to 2 mol. % and less than or equal to 10 mol. %; and Y mol. % alkali oxide, wherein the alkali oxide comprises Na₂O in an amount greater than or equal to 9 mol. % and less than or equal to 15 mol. %, a ratio of Y:X is greater than 1, and the glass composition is free of boron and compounds of boron, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises one of rituximab, bevacizumab, ranibizumab, trastuzumab, an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds CD20, an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds vascular endothelial growth factor-A, or an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds HER2.
 25. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the ratio of Y:X is less than or equal to
 2. 26. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the ratio of Y:X is greater than or equal to 1.3 and less than or equal to 2.0.
 27. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the ratio (CaO (mol. %)/(CaO (mol. %)+MgO (mol. %))) is less than or equal to 0.1.
 28. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the alkaline earth oxide comprises from 3 mol. % to 7 mol. % MgO.
 29. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the alkaline earth oxide comprises CaO in an amount greater than or equal to 0.1 mol. % and less than or equal to 1.0 mol. % relative to the glass composition.
 30. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the alkali oxide further comprises K₂O in an amount greater than or equal to 0.01 mol. % and less than or equal to 1.0 mol. %.
 31. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein X is greater than or equal to 5 mol. % and less than or equal to 7 mol. %.
 32. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds CD20.
 33. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises rituximab.
 34. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
 35. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises bevacizumab.
 36. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds vascular endothelial growth factor-A.
 37. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises ranibizumab.
 38. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds HER2.
 39. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises trastuzumab.
 40. The pharmaceutical container of claim 24, wherein the glass composition is free of ZrO₂.
 41. A delamination resistant pharmaceutical container comprising a pharmaceutical composition stored within the container, wherein the pharmaceutical container comprises a glass composition comprising: from 74 mol. % to 78 mol. % SiO₂; less than 1 mol. % ZrO₂; alkaline earth oxide comprising both CaO and MgO, wherein the alkaline earth oxide comprises CaO in an amount greater than or equal to 0.1 mol. % and less than or equal to 1.0 mol. % relative to the glass composition, and a ratio (CaO (mol. %)/(CaO (mol. %)+MgO (mol. %))) is less than or equal to 0.5; X mol. % Al₂O₃, wherein X is greater than or equal to 2 mol. % and less than or equal to 10 mol. %; and Y mol. % alkali oxide, wherein the alkali oxide comprises from 0.01 mol. % to 1.0 mol. % K₂O and a ratio of Y:X is greater than 1, and the glass composition is free of boron and compounds of boron, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises one of rituximab, bevacizumab, ranibizumab, trastuzumab, an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds CD20, an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds vascular endothelial growth factor-A, or an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds HER2.
 42. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the ratio of Y:X is less than or equal to
 2. 43. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the ratio of Y:X is greater than or equal to 1.3 and less than or equal to 2.0.
 44. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the ratio (CaO (mol. %)/(CaO (mol. %)+MgO (mol. %))) is less than or equal to 0.1.
 45. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the glass composition is free of phosphorous and compounds of phosphorous.
 46. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the alkali oxide further comprises Na₂O in an amount greater than 8 mol. %.
 47. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the alkali oxide further comprises Na₂O in an amount greater than or equal to 2 mol. % and less than or equal to 15 mol. %.
 48. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the alkali oxide further comprises from 9 mol. % to 13 mol. % Na₂O.
 49. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein X is greater than or equal to 5 mol. % and less than or equal to 7 mol. %.
 50. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds CD20.
 51. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises rituximab.
 52. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
 53. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises bevacizumab.
 54. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds vascular endothelial growth factor-A.
 55. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises ranibizumab.
 56. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises an antibody, or an antigen binding fragment thereof, that binds HER2.
 57. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises trastuzumab.
 58. The pharmaceutical container of claim 41, wherein the glass composition is free of ZrO₂. 